Review of The Spectacular Now (2013) by D.a. Z — 29 Mar 2014

In a year full of exploitative films depicting the cynical narcissism of today's youth (I'm looking at you, Spring Breakers and The Bling Ring), it is almost euphoric watching a film as emotionally profound as James Ponsoldt's indie romance-drama The Spectacular Now. This film has no need for action-packed sequences, crippling suspense, or deafening explosions to make it spectacular. It is a simple coming-of-age tale that is abundantly heartfelt and existentially moving. The film's charm and beauty counterbalances its panging realism so effectively that audiences will find themselves contemplating its poignant themes long after the credits role.

The Spectacular Now tells the story of Sutter Keely, a charming yet self-obsessed 18-year-old high school senior whose life philosophy is, quite simply, to "live in the now!" He consumes alcohol daily, seduces girls, and is apathetic about his future and most of the individuals in his life. After a night of heavy drinking, common for him, Sutter passes out on a lawn and is groggily awoken by a girl he does not recognize. She introduces herself as Aimee Finecky, a classmate who knows him by name although he does not recall ever having met her-or rather, never gave her a second thought. Sutter begins taking a liking to Aimee, and we learn that she is a sweet and timid girl who keeps mostly to herself and whose priority is providing for her family. In an attempt to befriend her, Sutter asks Aimee to tutor him, although it is obvious Sutter has ulterior motives. Aimee, who is wholeheartedly trusting and innocent, agrees, and therein begins their friendship.

As Sutter and Aimee become closer, Sutter begins to appreciate the purity Aimee exudes. They are the two opposing sides of the human spectrum-the nihilist and the optimist. Their relationship progresses as a truly genuine portrayal of teenage love, full of humor, sincerity, and heartbreak. The Spectacular Now depicts the challenges of entering adulthood with a pragmatically meaningful tone, tackling life issues such as alcoholism, apathy, individuality, and ultimately, what it truly means to love.

The Spectacular Now is beautiful and effortlessly told, and therein lies its success. It flows with ease due to its believability, because at one point, we have all felt the emotions and had the contemplations that Sutter and Aimee experience throughout their relationship. The film, at its core, teaches us about the human experience through a simple story of two teenagers in love, and that in itself makes The Spectacular Now a spectacular accomplishment.