Films: The Wackness (Mystery Film!)

Future Screenings: None

Ahhh... nothing like a journey into the unknown. In lieu of a clear direction or any previous experience in the film fest-going, I started my bit in coverage with a mystery film that ended up the neatest, nicest fit I could possibly hope for. A fine introduction if I do say so myself.

The Wackness
Maybe it’s just me, but a nineties period piece about a chill young weed-dealing hip-hop head catching feelings for the first time seems like an easy sell. American youth have been idolizing the neighborhood grass pusher since the 60s, Afrika Bambaataa had mixed kids bouncing back in the 80s and all us class of ‘9somethings are just now old enough to truly appreciate nostalgia. And for all those “hippies,” “punks,” and “b-boys” now slowly settling into adulthood, The Wackness is a generational touchstone that will leave you smiling wide.

For those that don’t know a dime bag from eighth, two hooks were available to grab oldheads, haters and squares. 1) In their infinite wisdom (for those that actually CHOSE to keep it a surprise uh hmmm uh hmmm Ross and Jill) the Philly Film Fest gods decided to make this heart-warming coming of age tale a secret film lacking both description and title (though this came as a slight disappointment to those that, like me, were totally expecting 94 minutes of Rick Rolling), 2) Sir Ben Kingsley as a pot smoking psychiatrist who, among other things, makes out with Mary-Kate Olsen. Questionable hookups aside, Kingsley delivers a fantastic performance as an aging hippie doctor and proves a fantastic counterpoint for Josh Peck’s “Luke.” All of the performances, in fact, were pretty good and definitely accurate. I’m slightly curious what the critical response will be to this movie—almost nervous in a way. But you know what? Fuck em. If you don’t feel this movie, it probably just wasn’t made for you. You probably don’t even like dogs, you cynical bastard. But for all those that still remember what it was like to be young, happy, high and in love, keep your eyes out for this one. You will not be disappointed.
Festival rating: Excellent.

Image Credit: Flickr user pedrosimoes7