is primarily known as a coming-of-age indie drama released in 2005, based on the 1979 novel by Scott Sommer. Set in suburban New Jersey during the late 1970s, the story explores themes of grief, adolescence, and the search for identity in the wake of family tragedy. Plot Overview
Critics often compare the film’s vibe to 1980s John Hughes movies but note its more somber, R-rated tone. The era is reflected through a soundtrack featuring artists like The Kinks and The Velvet Underground . Critical Reception
Played by David Moscow, Blair becomes a transient "doper," detaching from the family entirely. Amidst this chaos, Henry is torn between two young women:
Some reviewers found the dialogue to be "overwritten" or filled with "fortune cookie aphorisms," and felt the story trod familiar ground without adding new insights to the genre.
According to Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic , the film received mixed reviews.
The narrative follows high school senior Henry Nearing (Gregory Smith), whose life is in "free-fall" after the death of his mother, Rose. Henry struggles to find his footing while his family dissolves around him:
The seductive, wealthy, and manipulative "wild girl" who toys with Henry’s affections.
Henry’s grounded, lifelong best friend who is secretly in love with him. Thematic Elements
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