Movie Review: "Adventureland" May Not Be What You Expect

Where were you, and what were you doing during the 1980's? For James Brennan (Jesse Eisenberg), it's working as amusement park barker, but it's definitely not where he wants to be. James had hoped to tour Europe with a college buddy, then go off to NYC to attend Columbia University as graduate school student in journalism. When Mom (Wendy Malick) and Dad (Jack Gilpin) can't cough up the necessary dough, it's off to Adventureland, to work around belly churning smells of greasy corndogs, and the sickly, sweet odor of cotton candy. From writer/director Greg Mottola (Superbad) comes Adventureland, an unflinching look at a young man's struggles with family problems, career planing angst and complicated romantic issues.

Director Mottola crafts a memorable coming of age story evocative of classics like Fast Times At Ridgemont High and Dazed and Confused. It's the kind of movie chock full of likable characters you root for, along with loathsome ones you can't wait to see stymied or at least earn punishing desserts. A sticking point for me, though minor, were the posters, trailer and TV ads for the film promised a more wacky and wild tone. Those expecting a laugh a minute comic frenzy, may be disappointed. However, those loving bittersweet chuckles, and sharp funny characters, who never devolve into cartoon clowns, should love it. This story, nicely reflecting life, grows organically from twists and turns of always honestly written and portrayed cast of characters.

Rising star, on the verge of superstar status, Ryan Reynolds is Mike Connell, half repair man, half musician, all cool dude. Connell comes off as archetypal stud, romantic player, yet with Mottola's deft direction and Reynolds full bodied acting, he's never unlikeable. There's a running joke about Mike's jam session with the legendary Lou Reed, which plays out so effectively it's both fun story point, and symbolic lesson on those who weave a spell of mystery to hide their true self, because they're insecure or so boring, it's the only resort besides the truth.

With a small, but moving turn as a girl who cruelly spurns one of Jame's best friends, Paige Howard, (director Ron Howard's daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard's sister) proves she carries on a Hollywood family's talent legacy. SNL fans will love seeing cast members Bill Hader and Kristin Wiig as goofy operators of the park. Creatively scored to a soundtrack of classic 1980's music, Adventureland, like Romy & Michelle's High School Reunion, straddles comedy and drama terrain nicely, just don't expect the latter's more upbeat, even farcical tone. Ultimately though, Greg Mottola's film delivers more of a optimistic adventure than anything else.

Giant assed Panda! (You'll get it after you see the flick)