Critic’s Choice: ‘The Way, Way Back’

Readers flooded me with emails over the weekend; they couldn’t say enough about the new indie “The Way, Way Back.” So I couldn’t resist saying a bit more too. Don’t miss one of this summer’s pure pleasures. Written and directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, the film is full of fun, family insights and just enough of a burn to keep things interesting. Its terrific acting ensemble includes Steve Carell, Toni Collette and a deliciously naughty Allison Janney. But go for the heart — Sam Rockwell as Owen, the cool dude who runs the local kid-magnet, a water park. Imagine Peter Pan nearing 40, in board shorts, a day-old scruff and a wicked wit and you’ve got Owen to a T. He’s particularly good with teen strays, and 14-year-old Duncan (Liam James) is the wounded cub who becomes his summer project. The goal: reclaim self-esteem damaged by Mom’s (Collette) new flame (Carell). Rockwell and James have an easy and irresistible rapport on screen. You root for these boys of summer to win the day. And like the Henley song, they’ll haunt you long after the movie ends.