Adventureland Review

WHAT HAPPENS TO A SLIGHTLY NERDY GUY who by happenchance comes upon some great pot and a diminished expectation for his future? Well, I'll tell you...he takes a lousy summer carnie job at the local amusement park and changes his life! Adventureland has a realist feel to it that had me doubting (only at first) whether I would enjoy it. There's an awkwardness to James that's painful to watch and a Michael Cera vulnerability that makes you want to look away as he endures one humiliation and disappointment after another. Adventureland is a coming of age film that's not likely to surprise you, but more than makes up for the tried-but-true storyline with a heart so large that it's positively overflowing. THERE ARE SEVERAL CHUCKLE MOMENTS THAT ARE WORTH THE WATCH ALONE, BUT THE CAST IS TRULY SMOKING AND A JOY TO WATCH. I quite enjoyed Martin Starr as the nerdy-as-you-get best bud. He is a perfect fit for the role, yet underneath his geeky persona is a Jeff Goldblum inner coolness that suggests some major mojo and a future of more serious roles. With its dead-on 80s feel, funny but full-fleshed characters, and a well-scripted story, Adventureland is worth a Friday evening watch to those patient enough to give it a go. Enjoyable and highly recommended.