If there was a better film at Sundance this year than The Wackness it was probably foreign or some crap and I didn’t bother with it*. Set in the transitional New York City of 1994, it’s about a white kid dealing dope to his psychiatrist in exchange for free sessions. Well, that’s the spine of the plot, but there’s more going on in the film.
When it was purchased by Sony Pictures Classics an uproar ensued; this is the company that couldn’t open a door, let alone a movie. The Wackness reeks of Fox Searchlight, and in their hands, I think this could be a huge hit. With SPC… well, we’ll see.
But the early news is not good. There’s a trailer for the film now, and besides the terrific musical choice, I don’t think it exactly captures the spirit of the movie. In fact, watching the trailer, I don’t know if SPC has decided how they’re selling this thing. Let’s hope that future materials are a little more gripping than this.
*Just kidding. I know there was no better film.
11 comments
I'm slowly becoming intrigued. '94, huh? Let me guesse, a grunge heavy sdtr., and Kurt Cobain's death figuring into the plot?
Try Hip-Hop, circa 1994. At least that's what I got from Devin's Sundance Review.
It's all hip hop. No Cobain. And the movie's a fucking classic.
Sony Classics IS The Wackness. That trailer felt all wrong to me. I can see a great movie peeking out from around its corners, and I wouldn't dream of missing it – but that trailer didn't do it for me, either. I think Screen Gems could have gotten more asses in seats for this one than Classics will be able to manage. Then again, Sony Classics marketing is as inept as it gets without having Harvey Weinstein's signature on your paycheck. They couldn't sell free money.
Echhhh. I've read all the glowing reviews of this one, but I hadn't seen a second of the actual movie, and….sheesh. That looks terrible. Again, I'm sure it's NOT, but….that looks terrible.
personally i dont get the buzz devin's trying to build for this one. this one didnt even make my top 5 at sundance this year. it was a solid "7".
Nobody cares about this film, fatass.
The best hip-hop came out in the early to mid 90's and that is the only thing that intrigues me about that trailer. I'm sure it will be a solid flick but based on that it is hard to see.
Saw this for free at the Alamo Drafthouse after all the recommendations from Devin, and I really did not like it at all. Boring, contrived, and just a nostalgic trip for you '90s New Yorkers. Don't expect much.
Scott K is right about this one, I saw it at a festival and was bored out of my mind. Poorly acted and poorly written and poorly directed. Pass.
Neo-pretentious hogwash! Harumph, I say. Harumph!
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