Watch Mid90s

Set in Los Angeles during the mid-1990s, "Mid90s" is a coming-of-age drama that follows a 13-year-old boy named Stevie (Sunny Suljic) as he navigates his way through the skateboarding subculture. His home life is less than perfect: his older brother beats him and his single mother is always working. Seeking acceptance and a sense of belonging, Stevie befriends a group of teenage skateboarders who hang out at a local skate shop. They introduce him to the world of skating, music, and partying, but also expose him to drugs, alcohol, and dangerous stunts.

The film is written and directed by Jonah Hill in his directorial debut. His style is raw and authentic, capturing the gritty skateboard culture of the era. The cinematography, by Christopher Blauvelt, uses a 4:3 aspect ratio and a natural color palette, giving the film a vintage look that complements the time period. The soundtrack is a mix of hip-hop and punk rock, featuring songs by groups like Wu-Tang Clan, Nirvana, and Pixies.

Sunny Suljic delivers a standout performance as Stevie, capturing the emotions of a teenager who is trying to find his place in the world. His interactions with the other characters in the film are genuine and heartfelt, especially his dynamic with Ray (Na-Kel Smith), the leader of the skateboard crew. Katherine Waterston plays Stevie's mother, Dabney, and provides a touching and nuanced performance as a woman trying to provide for her family while dealing with her own personal struggles. Lucas Hedges portrays Ian, the owner of the skate shop, and brings complexity to a character who initially seems like just a stoner slacker.

While the film is primarily a coming-of-age story, it touches on deeper themes such as family, identity, and belonging. The relationship between Stevie and his brother (played by Olan Prenatt) is tumultuous and reveals the effects of domestic abuse on children. The film also tackles issues of toxic masculinity and homophobia within the skateboarding community, highlighting the struggles of characters who do not fit the mold of the stereotypical skater.

Overall, "Mid90s" is a powerful and poignant film that offers a realistic look into the lives of teenagers growing up in the mid-90s. Hill's direction and Suljic's performance are particularly impressive, capturing the heart and soul of the film. The themes explored in the movie are universal, making it a relatable experience for audiences of all ages.

In conclusion, "Mid90s" is a must-see film for anyone who has ever struggled to find their identity or place in the world. It offers a glimpse into the past while also shedding light on issues that are still relevant today.

Mid90s is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 66.