mid90s

The mid90s, a cinematic exploration of the complexities of adolescence and the thrill of self-discovery, unfolds as a poignant coming-of-age story set against the vibrant backdrop of 1990s Los Angeles. Written and directed by Jonah Hill, the film delves into the world of 13-year-old Stevie, a vulnerable and impressionable teenager caught between a tumultuous home life and the alluring appeal of a new crew of friends he meets at the local skate shop, Echo Park Skateboard Shop. We find Stevie living in a cramped and chaotic household with his mother, Dabney, a struggling artist whose own demons often leave her overwhelmed and absent. His father, a quiet and distant presence, seems more concerned with his own problems than with providing a stable and supportive environment for his son. Amidst this turmoil, Stevie finds solace in the world of skateboarding, where he can express himself freely and momentarily escape the stress and anxiety that pervades his home life. One summer morning, Stevie stumbles upon the Echo Park Skateboard Shop, a hangout spot for a tight-knit group of teenagers who share his passion for skating. The shop itself is a hub of creativity and rebellion, filled with the sounds of punk rock music and the smell of freshly cut concrete. It's here that Stevie meets a cast of colorful and charismatic characters, including Ian, the charismatic leader of the crew; Jay, a rebellious and fiercely loyal skateboarder; and Sean, a quiet but intensely skate-obsessed teenager who becomes Stevie's closest friend. Under the guidance of these older teenagers, Stevie learns the intricacies of skateboarding, mastering tricks and techniques that allow him to connect with his new friends on a deeper level. As they spend more time together, Stevie finds himself drawn into their crew, feeling a sense of belonging and camaraderie that he desperately craves. For the first time in his life, he experiences the thrill of being part of a community, one that welcomes him for who he is and encourages him to push his limits on and off the skateboard. As the summer wears on, Stevie finds himself torn between his loyalty to his new friends and the obligations that come with his family life. His home situation grows increasingly strained, with tensions between his parents threatening to boil over into full-blown conflict. Dabney, in particular, struggles to balance her own artistic ambitions with the demands of parenting, often leaving Stevie to fend for himself and navigate the complexities of his own emotions. Meanwhile, Stevie's relationships with his new friends deepen, and he begins to see them as a surrogate family. Ian, with his confident swagger and natural leadership, takes on a paternal role, guiding Stevie through the ups and downs of adolescence. Jay, on the other hand, provides a more rough-around-the-edges perspective, often challenging Stevie's boundaries and pushing him to confront the harsh realities of growing up. Sean, quiet and observant, becomes Stevie's confidant, offering a listening ear and a supportive presence that helps him navigate the turmoil at home. As the summer draws to a close, Stevie finds himself facing a daunting reality: his friends are moving on with their lives, and he must confront the possibility of losing the only stable and supportive relationships he has ever known. The mid90s captures this moment of uncertainty with unflinching candor, portraying the bittersweet beauty of young friendship and the agony of growing up. Throughout the film, Hill interweaves themes of identity, community, and the search for belonging, offering a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of adolescence. Stevie's experiences, though unique to his own circumstances, resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. The mid90s is a poignant exploration of the challenges and triumphs of growing up, a film that reminds us that, no matter how messy and chaotic life may seem, it is in the moments of connection and community that we find true strength and resilience.