I confess that I had never heard of this movie, and it just happened to be starting when I was channel surfing. I decided to stay with it, and am really glad that I did - this is one of the nicest, best-thought out movies that I have seen in a very long time. The performances were all excellent, the characters were very real and believable, and story was absolutely riveting.It's not just the 14-year-old protagonist who "comes of age," but all of the positive characters really show development and growth in this movie.

In all honesty, I completely loved this film, it is one of the most heartwarming coming-of-age stories of recent years and blends comedy, drama and emotion perfectly. With top notch performances, most notably from Sam Rockwell as the overzealous-yet-lovable waterpark manager Owen and Steve Carrel as the somewhat unexpectedly despicable Trent, both James and Robb also do wonders as the young duo. The film itself has a nice indie feel to it with a fantastic acoustic score, supported by some fine music choices and a generally satisfying story as a whole. A definite must-watch if you enjoy coming-of-age dramas with that hint of heartwarming humour.

Great movie, funny, charming, etc. You can read the other reviews for adjectives I couldn't come up with. I just wanted to focus on the performances (in particular that of Sam Rockwell) to give you a taste of what's in store.As my title suggests, in the Behind the Scenes feature, Sam Rockwell confesses that he watched Bill Murray in Meatballs eleven times to help develop the fast-yammering, charmingly-sarcastic, lovable slob "Owen" whom he plays in this film. Rockwell also mentions other iconic 80s influences like Michael Keaton (I'm assuming "Beetlejuice"), and although he didn't say it, I would throw in the late, great Robin Williams ("Good Morning Vietnam"). What I'm trying to say is that Rockwell's performance in "The Way, Way Back" is a HILARIOUS homage to those characteristic comedy leads you may have grown up with if you're between the ages of 30 and 50. Heck, even if not, it's never too late to get acquainted."Owen" is the sort of kind-hearted yet darkly witty character who walks around mumbling hilarious zingers to himself almost as if he's alone in a psych ward. That is, until he snaps out of it and says (to his unappreciative, deadpan co star) something like, "WOW, do you even get comedy?" or "Come on, that was some of my best material!" The result is a true Rockwell original: a character who's a weird blend of Bill Murray and maybe Rain Man ("Kmart sucks"). This movie is well worth watching for its story alone, but Rockwell is what gives it that extra little push over the cliff.Playing lesser roles but just as fun to watch are Owen's band of misfit coworkers at "Water Wizz" (ya gotta love that hilarious name which, oddly enough, is the REAL name of the water park where this was filmed). There's Maya Rudolph who plays Owen's keeper, or the only real "adult" at the water park. There's writer/director Nat Faxon playing "Roddy", a harmless pervert who operates the water slide. And there's the other writer/director Jim Rash playing "Lewis" in his funniest role since he played "Andrew" on Reno 911 (yes that was him, the weird pervert who used to call the sheriff's department for such outrageous crimes as a prostitute getting peach Schnapps on his man parts).Thus, without even getting into the story, the stage is set with some of the weirdest personalities you can imagine. The story, as you've probably figured out by the IMDb summary, is about "Duncan", a 14-year-old boy who is subjected to an excruciating summer at the home of his mother's new boyfriend (played by The Office's Steve Carell, but in a role that makes you want to call child services on him). Duncan, suffering from a severe case of introversion, if not a terminal case of uncool, wanders into Water Wizz one afternoon, and the fun begins. What's great about Liam James' portrayal of Duncan is that, unlike a lot of introverted coming-of-age characters who are actually somewhat in control, Liam conveys a sense of absolute psychological spaghetti. What I mean is that this kid seems to be just 1 trauma away from growing up to be a serial killer. That gives the story much more meaning when you realize that this poor kid, thanks to the absolute failure of all adults in his life, is desperately in need of rescuing.I also have to add major comedy points to Allison Janney who plays the mai-tai swilling next door neighbor in tight pants (think Peg Bundy). In addition to putting on the best Boston accent (she's actually from Ohio), her rapid fire, largely improvised wit is an absolute treat to watch. It should be noted that in an interview Allison admits that her character's mannerisms as well as a lot of priceless lines came from some of her real life friends. So yes, I guess people like that really exist.Whether you're looking for a coming of age story, a story about dysfunctional families, or just a great comedy, this movie is well worth the price of admission. It may even inspire you to take a trip to Water Wizz to hurl yourself down the Devil's Peak slide (which was given its name for this film and it stuck). Just don't try to pass anyone on the slide, or it may lead to intense depression, self-loathing and a meaningless future as a male prostitute. Watch the movie and you'll get the joke.

I rarely give out 10s, but this movie truly deserves it.The script and dialogue is believable and very well executed. All the actors played their parts to perfection. Who would've guessed that Steve Carrel could play such a douche? Toni Colette is great as the insecure mom who loves her son, but is torn between him and "Trent". (Toni has a knack for these roles requiring depth - see "Muriels Wedding") Sam Rockwell is perfect as the not-yet completely grown-up mentor.The plot and pacing is just perfect. This gives the movie a feeling of believability, while being funny and captivating. There are no unnecessary jokes or violence. No silly special effects. And Owens "Don't follow a pattern on my quarter. You pave your own way" is what it's all about.This hit a home-run with me. 10/10