Watch Adventureland
- R
- 2009
- 1 hr 47 min
-
6.8 (162,955)
Adventureland is a heartwarming coming-of-age movie set in the summer of 1987. It follows the story of James Brennan (played by Jesse Eisenberg) as he graduates from college and is forced to take a dead-end job at a local amusement park called Adventureland. At first, James is disappointed with his job, as he'd hoped to spend his summer in Europe. But he soon realizes that Adventureland is the perfect place for him, as he befriends his quirky and eccentric co-workers, including the sarcastic Joel (Martin Starr) and the free-spirited Em (Kristen Stewart). As James begins to settle into his new job, he becomes smitten with Em, who is involved in a complicated relationship with the park's maintenance worker, Mike (Ryan Reynolds). Meanwhile, James deals with the pressures of growing up and being thrust into the real world, as he struggles to deal with his troubled family life and figure out what he wants to do with his life. The film is directed by Greg Mottola, who also directed the hit comedy Superbad. Like that film, Adventureland is full of hilarious and relatable moments, as well as a heartfelt story about growing up and finding one's place in the world. Jesse Eisenberg shines as James, capturing the awkwardness and uncertainty of a young man trying to find his way in life. His chemistry with Kristen Stewart's Em is palpable, and their relationship is both sweet and realistic. Ryan Reynolds also delivers a standout performance as Mike, bringing both humor and depth to his character. One of the standout aspects of Adventureland is its attention to detail in recreating the 1980s, from the fashion to the music. The film's soundtrack features classic hits from the era, including songs from The Cure, David Bowie, and INXS. The overall effect is a nostalgic and charming atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the era. In addition to its great performances and nostalgic appeal, Adventureland also deals with important themes such as friendship, romance, and the struggles of growing up. James' journey is one that many young adults can relate to, as he confronts the challenges of the real world and begins to develop a sense of who he is and what he wants out of life. Overall, Adventureland is a charming and heartfelt movie that will make you laugh, cry, and feel a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The excellent performances from its cast, combined with its sharp writing and attention to detail, make it a must-see for fans of coming-of-age movies.