Jonah Hill, best known in front of the screen for his roles in 21 Jump Street and The Wolf Of Wall Street, here makes his debut behind the camera as the writer and director of this gritty coming-of-age drama.
In 1990s LA, 12-year-old Stevie (Suljic) spends his summer with a group of older kids who hang out at the local skateboard shop. Struggling at home, prone to self-harming and caught between his insecure mother and abusive brother, Stevie finds an outlet for his confusion and anger amongst the kids who are crude and reckless but also loyal and honest.
Aimed at older teens and adults (it’s packed with bad language, sex, drugs – and rock ‘n’ roll courtesy of a well-chosen soundtrack) this raw debut from Hill depicts the awkwardness of teen life as well as both the hopelessness and hopefulness it brings. These kids don’t seem to have parents or parental figures (and behave in ways that will make the hair of any parents watching stand on end) and are making their way with the aid of drink, drugs and a shared love of skateboarding.
Brief, at less than 90 minutes long, but nonetheless packing a punch, this has light moments as well as dark, some terrific skate boarding scenes (especially those when the boys weave down the middle of a busy highway) and some superb performances from the young cast (Suljic especially).
Is Mid90s suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
This is a 15 certificate film and is aimed at adults and older teens. Please note that under-15s cannot see this film in UK cinemas.
Please note this is a 15 certificate in the UK and an R in the US, and features bad language, sex and drug references and use, violence and depictions of self harm, all featuring underage kids.
There is also a car accident, various fights and a skateboarding accident that may upset more sensitive viewers.
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