Director: James Ponsoldt.
Starring: Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Brie Larson, Kyle Chandler.
Running Time: 95 minutes.
Certificate: 15.
Synopsis: When hard-partying Sutter (Miles Teller) breaks up with his long-term girlfriend he finds his life changing as he meets the not-so-typical ‘nice girl’ Aimee (Shailene Woodley).
THE SPECTACULAR NOW isn’t your typical rom-com in that it deals with family issues, a young man coming of age, as well as the obligatory love. Based on Tim Tharp’s novel of the same name, the film begins with Sutter typing his personal statement for college applications with a brutal summary of his now single life, filled with profanity and wit that sets the tone for the rest of the film.
Writers Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber have previous experience in the non-formulaic rom-com with (500) DAYS OF SUMMER, and whilst this doesn’t reach those heights, the same quirks are present; all encompassed in Miles Teller’s excellent performance, thankfully a million miles away from 21 & OVER and PROJECT X. Teller is ably supported by the understated Shailene Woodley and the always excellent Jennifer Jason Leigh.
Director James Ponsoldt handles the many aspects of the story splendidly, moving from the intimate to far away at the correct moments, and pleasingly the need to over-produce shots isn’t a trap Ponsoldt falls into. There are moments when the many aspects threaten to overwhelm the script and the film as a whole – a particular struggle is the missing-dad angle which stretches on far too long with little reward – and there is a hideous amount of drink-driving going on throughout the film which is never really addressed, even when the repercussions are felt by one of the main characters, leaving a bad taste in the mouth. Fortunately with all the positives on show, these are just about allowed to slide.
THE SPECTACULAR NOW is a heart-warming tale that doesn’t follow the generic tropes you may expect when purchasing your ticket. Sure, it isn’t going to change your world or break any new ground, but the film is a breath of fresh air thanks to its wit, performances and confident direction. It may not be spectacular, but it’s still bloody enjoyable.
THE SPECTACULAR NOW is showing Thursday 10th, Friday 11th and Sunday 20th October as part of the Love section. Check out all our LFF coverage here.
