Written by Ursula Kight
Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Wackness is a cult classic movie released in 2008 that has left a lasting impact on moviegoers and critics alike. Directed by Jonathan Levine, this coming-of-age drama set in 1994 New York City follows the story of Luke Shapiro, a high school graduate and aspiring drug dealer, as he navigates through a tumultuous summer filled with self-discovery, love, and unconventional friendships.
With its unique blend of humor, heart, and nostalgia, The Wackness presents a captivating narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages. This article will delve into 46 fascinating facts about The Wackness, shedding light on behind-the-scenes anecdotes, trivia, and insightful details that have contributed to its enduring popularity. So, let’s dive into the world of The Wackness and uncover the secrets behind this beloved film.
Key Takeaways:
- “The Wackness” is a 2008 coming-of-age film set in 1994 New York City, exploring love, friendship, and self-discovery. It won awards and is praised for its nostalgic 90s setting and authentic portrayal of youth.
- The movie’s blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and iconic 90s hip-hop soundtrack makes it a timeless coming-of-age classic. It resonates with audiences of all ages, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Fact 1
The Wackness is a coming-of-age movie released in
Fact 2
It was written and directed by Jonathan Levine.
Fact 3
The movie stars Josh Peck, Ben Kingsley, and Olivia Thirlby.
Fact 4
The Wackness is set in New York City during the summer of
Fact 5
Josh Peck portrays a high school graduate named Luke Shapiro, who sells marijuana to his therapist in exchange for sessions.
Fact 6
Ben Kingsley plays Dr. Jeffrey Squires, Luke’s therapist who has his own personal struggles.
Fact 7
Olivia Thirlby takes on the role of Stephanie, Luke’s love interest.
Fact 8
The movie explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
Fact 9
It received positive reviews from critics, praising its performances and nostalgic 90s setting.
Fact 10
The Wackness won the Audience Award at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.
Fact 11
Kingsley’s performance as Dr. Squires earned him a nomination for a Golden Globe Award.
Fact 12
The soundtrack for the movie features various hip-hop artists from the 90s era.
Fact 13
It showcases the cultural and social landscape of New York City in the 90s.
Fact 14
The Wackness portrays the struggles of youth and the search for identity.
Fact 15
The film explores the complex relationship between Luke and Dr. Squires.
Fact 16
The portrayal of marijuana use and the exploration of adolescence led to the movie’s R rating.
Fact 17
The film’s title, “The Wackness”, refers to a state of being uncool or disconnected from reality.
Fact 18
The Wackness captures the essence of a specific time period and generation.
Fact 19
The movie offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who grew up in the 90s.
Fact 20
It serves as a reminder of the struggles and awkwardness of adolescence.
Fact 21
The Wackness showcases the power of music to evoke emotions and shape experiences.
Fact 22
The film’s cinematography captures the vibrant and gritty atmosphere of New York City.
Fact 23
It delves into the complexities of human relationships and the challenges that come with growing up.
Fact 24
The Wackness offers a blend of humor and heartfelt moments.
Fact 25
It explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for connection.
Fact 26
The movie’s script is filled with witty dialogue and memorable one-liners.
Fact 27
It serves as a love letter to 90s hip-hop culture.
Fact 28
The Wackness is a character-driven story that focuses on personal growth and self-reflection.
Fact 29
The performances of Josh Peck, Ben Kingsley, and Olivia Thirlby elevate the film’s authenticity.
Fact 30
The movie’s plot twists and turns keep the audience engaged throughout.
Fact 31
The Wackness offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre with its unique setting and characters.
Fact 32
It explores the universal themes of love, loss, and finding one’s place in the world.
Fact 33
The film’s portrayal of therapy challenges societal stigmas and provides a deeper understanding of mental health.
Fact 34
The Wackness showcases the power of unconventional friendships and unexpected connections.
Fact 35
It highlights the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one’s flaws.
Fact 36
The movie’s soundtrack features iconic tracks from artists like Nas, A Tribe Called Quest, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Fact 37
The Wackness received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of youth and its nostalgic atmosphere.
Fact 38
It is considered a cult classic among film enthusiasts.
Fact 39
The movie’s 90s setting and soundtrack create a sense of nostalgia for older audiences.
Fact 40
The Wackness explores the transition from adolescence to adulthood and the challenges that come with it.
Fact 41
It intertwines comedy and drama to create a well-rounded storytelling experience.
Fact 42
The film’s themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate with viewers of all ages.
Fact 43
The Wackness serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to capture the essence of a specific time period.
Fact 44
It showcases the talents of director Jonathan Levine in crafting an authentic and emotionally engaging narrative.
Fact 45
The movie’s memorable quotes and relatable characters have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Fact 46
The Wackness continues to be a beloved film for its unique storytelling style and timeless themes.
The Wackness is a 2008 coming-of-age film set in New York City during the summer of It follows the story of Luke Shapiro, a high school graduate played by Josh Peck, who sells marijuana to his therapist, Dr. Jeffrey Squires (played by Ben Kingsley), in exchange for therapy sessions. Luke navigates his way through the challenges of adolescence, falling in love with Stephanie (played by Olivia Thirlby) and grappling with his own personal struggles. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, while also capturing the cultural and social landscape of 90s New York City.
The Wackness received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its performances, nostalgic setting, and authentic portrayal of youth. It won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for various awards, including a Golden Globe nomination for Ben Kingsley’s performance. The film’s soundtrack, featuring iconic 90s hip-hop artists, adds to its nostalgic charm and enhances the 90s atmosphere.
With its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and relatable characters, The Wackness stands as a memorable coming-of-age film that resonates with audiences of all ages. It serves as a time capsule of 90s culture and offers a unique perspective on the challenges of growing up and finding one’s place in the world. The performances of Josh Peck, Ben Kingsley, and Olivia Thirlby bring depth and authenticity to the characters, making them relatable and engaging.
Overall, The Wackness is a must-watch film for those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a heartfelt exploration of adolescence, love, and self-discovery. Its authentic storytelling, memorable quotes, and 90s soundtrack make it a cult classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Wackness is a captivating and unique film that takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the 90s. With its stellar cast, engaging storyline, and memorable soundtrack, it has become a cult favorite among movie enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of coming-of-age tales, heartfelt dramas, or simply looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, The Wackness is a must-watch film that will leave a lasting impression.
FAQs
Q: Who directed The Wackness?
A: The Wackness was directed by Jonathan Levine, who is known for his work in films like Warm Bodies and 50/50.
Q: When was The Wackness released?
A: The Wackness was released on July 3, 2008.
Q: Who are the main cast members of The Wackness?
A: The film stars Josh Peck as Luke Shapiro, Ben Kingsley as Dr. Jeffrey Squires, and Olivia Thirlby as Stephanie.
Q: Is The Wackness based on a true story?
A: No, The Wackness is not based on a true story. It is a fictional coming-of-age film set in New York City during the 90s.
Q: What is the running time of The Wackness?
A: The running time of The Wackness is approximately 99 minutes.
Q: Does The Wackness have any notable awards or nominations?
A: Yes, The Wackness received the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.