Opened: May 31, 2013

Directed by: Jordan Vogt-Roberts

Starring: Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso, Moisés Arias, Nick Offerman, Alison Brie, Megan Mullally, Marc Evan Jackson, Eugene Cordero, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Thomas Middleditch, Erin Moriarty, Nathan Keyes, Angela Trimbur, Kumail Nanjiani, Austin Abrams, Craig Cackowski, Lili Reinhart, Cristoffer Carter, Hannibal Buress & Tony Hale

In his directorial debut, Jordan Vogt-Roberts manages to combine chaotic freedom with beautiful character development to create an incredible coming-of-age film.

Tired of their overbearing parents, friends Joe (Nick Robinson) and Patrick (Gabriel Basso) spend their summer in Ohio building and living in a house of their own out in the woods. Though it’s just them and Biaggio (Moisés Arias), their friendship is tested when Kelly (Erin Moriarty) comes in the middle.

Though the film features an insanely comedic supporting cast, Robinson, Basso and Arias hold their own as the leads. With Joe experiencing many emotions, Robinson in particular is a spectacle and paves his path to stardom.

While the storyline may be slightly predictable, Chris Galleta’s script keeps it feeling fresh. There are moments of intensity that’ll have you shielding your eyes.

Final say: Growing up isn’t easy. ★★★★★