Watch You're a Big Boy Now

"You're a Big Boy Now" is a coming-of-age comedy-drama film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and released in 1966. Set in New York City, the movie tells the story of Bernard Chanticleer (played by Peter Kastner), a 17-year-old recent high school graduate who works at a library and still lives with his overprotective and controlling parents (played by Julie Harris and Rip Torn).

Bernard is a shy and innocent young man who is obsessed with literature and poetry. He dreams of becoming a writer and pursuing his own passions, but his parents and society's expectations keep getting in the way. They treat him like a child, not allowing him to make his own decisions, and constantly reminding him of his duties and obligations. Bernard feels suffocated and trapped, desperate to break free.

One day, Bernard meets Amy (played by Elizabeth Hartman) at the library where he works. She is a free-spirited and independent girl who shares his love of books and music. They quickly develop a connection and start dating, despite the disapproval of Bernard's parents.

As Bernard navigates his new relationship and tries to assert his independence, he faces a series of challenges and obstacles. He struggles to balance his duties at the library with his writing aspirations, and he is constantly pressured by his boss (played by Geraldine Page) to conform and behave in a professional manner.

Meanwhile, Bernard's parents become increasingly controlling, trying to sabotage his relationship with Amy and pushing him towards a career in business. Bernard feels torn between his love for Amy and his loyalty to his parents, unsure of what path to take.

"You're a Big Boy Now" is a funny and poignant film that captures the struggles and anxieties of adolescence and the pressure to conform to societal norms. The performances are excellent, with Peter Kastner giving a sensitive and nuanced portrayal of a young man struggling to find his place in the world. Elizabeth Hartman is also excellent as the feisty and independent Amy, and Julie Harris and Rip Torn shine as Bernard's overbearing parents.

The film is also notable for its innovative visuals and editing, with Coppola using bold and experimental techniques such as split-screen and jump cuts to create a dynamic and energetic style. The soundtrack, featuring music by the Lovin' Spoonful and featuring original songs by composer John Sebastian, is also a highlight, capturing the spirit of the 1960s counterculture.

"You're a Big Boy Now" is a timeless classic that still resonates today, capturing the universal struggles of adolescence and the search for personal identity and freedom. It is a must-see for anyone who has ever felt lost, confused and unsure of themselves, and a reminder that it's never too late to find your place in the world.