Watch Bummer Summer

Bummer Summer is a coming-of-age film that premiered in 2010. The film is written and directed by Zach Weintraub and stars Mackinley Robinson, Alex Rivera, and Simon Kogan. The film takes us on a journey through the lives of three friends, who spend their summer days aimlessly wandering around their neighborhood, trying to escape the boredom of their everyday lives. The film is a refreshing take on the genre, offering a realistic and relatable portrayal of adolescent life.

The film takes place in the suburbs of Chicago and explores the internal struggles of the characters as they try to come to terms with growing up. We follow the story of Alex (Mackinley Robinson), an introspective and introverted teenager, who is struggling to find his place in the world. Alex's parents are in the process of getting a divorce, and this has taken a toll on him. He spends his days reading books and trying to escape from the chaos of his life.

On the other hand, Simon (Simon Kogan) is Alex's extroverted best friend, who is always on the lookout for the next adventure. Simon is obsessed with girls and spends his days trying to impress them. He is constantly pushing Alex out of his composure zone, trying to get him to live a little. Simon's antics provide comic relief throughout the movie.

The third member of the trio is Mack (Alex Rivera), a hotheaded and impulsive teenager, who is always getting into trouble. He has a strained relationship with his parents and spends his days getting stoned and drinking. His behavior often lands him in dangerous situations.

Throughout the movie, the characters are forced to face the realities of their lives. They are all dealing with issues that are unique to their situation, and the film does an excellent job of portraying this. The movie does not shy away from portraying the gritty aspects of adolescent life, such as drug use, alcohol abuse, and sexual encounters. However, it also shows the beauty in the mundane moments that are so significant to young people.

The film's pacing is slow, and it allows the viewer to soak in the emotions of each scene. The director uses a mix of long takes and close-ups to create an intimacy with the characters. The cinematography captures the suburban landscapes beautifully, and the soundtrack is perfect for the film's tone.

One of the film's strengths is the performances of the actors. Mackinley Robinson's portrayal of Alex is excellent. He brings a quiet intensity to the character and conveys a sense of vulnerability that is relatable. Alex Rivera's Mack is also impressive. He brings a rawness to the role that makes his character's behavior understandable.

Perhaps the only downside to the film is that it might not be everyone's cup of tea. Its slow pacing and lack of a clear plot may not appeal to some viewers. However, if you are willing to make the investment into the characters' stories, it is a rewarding experience.

In conclusion, Bummer Summer is a gem of a film that offers a refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre. Its intimate portrayal of adolescent life, coupled with outstanding performances, makes it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good drama.