Weekend Watch: Adventureland [2009 Comedy/Romance]

Greg Mottola’s Adventureland is a nostalgic coming-of-age story that blends late '80s vibes with the raw, awkward realities of young adulthood. Set during the summer of 1987, the film follows James (Jesse Eisenberg), a recent college grad who dreams of a European adventure but ends up working at the rundown Adventureland amusement park instead. What seems like a dead-end gig turns into a transformative summer, thanks to the park's quirky crew and the unexpected bonds he forms.

Kristen Stewart shines as Em, the brooding, enigmatic co-worker who captures James’ heart with her mix of cool detachment and hidden vulnerability. Her chemistry with Eisenberg is electric, making their connection feel both tender and turbulent. The cast is rounded out by Ryan Reynolds as the park’s older, charismatic maintenance man with a complicated personal life, and a scene-stealing duo in Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, who bring the laughs as the eccentric park managers.

What sets Adventureland apart is its authenticity—the humor is often understated, but the emotional beats hit hard, capturing the messy, uncertain nature of growing up. The film’s soundtrack, featuring tracks from Lou Reed, The Replacements, and The Cure, perfectly underscores the era’s melancholic vibe.

And since we’re in the thick of summer, there’s no better time to dive into this sun-soaked tale of first loves, fleeting friendships, and the bittersweet beauty of a season that changes everything. This weekend, let Adventureland take you on a ride through the highs and lows of youth—it’s a trip worth taking.