THE PLOT THUS FAR
In the tradition of free-wheeling tributes to adolescence like Dazed & Confused, THE MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER follows four young people (a cast of brilliant young newcomers in their feature film debuts) on the last night of summer – their final night of freedom before the new school year starts. The teenagers cross paths as they explore the suburban wonderland they inhabit in search of love and adventure – chasing first kisses, elusive crushes, popularity and parties – and discover the quiet moments that will resonate as the best of their youth. Writer/director David Robert Mitchell crafts a tender coming-of-age drama that s at times both heartwarming and truthful.
WHAT WE THOUGHT
Facing personal and interpersonal crossroads on the last night of summer vacation, four high school friends wander the streets of suburban Detroit, each taking the first tentative steps into the world of adulthood in this thought-provoking drama. This movie is fantastic, a true nostalgic trip into a world we barely remember, where nothing that was all that big of a deal was a huge deal. Identity, self acceptance, freedom, independence. Watching these kids go through a relatively normal and bland night in the grand scheme of things made me realize that so much time is spent thinking big.
Unlike most comedies aimed at an adolescent audience this low-key film eschews the usual cheap scatological and puerile humor, opting for a more in depth exploration of their concerns. Mitchell demonstrates a strong understanding of adolescent emotions and desires that brings credibility to the material, and it reeks with a strong sense of nostalgia. Mitchell maintains a deceptively meandering pace as he juggles the multiple narrative strands and moves seamlessly between the various characters. The dialogue rings true, and Mitchell teases natural performances from his unknown ensemble cast. The Myth Of The American Sleepover is an honest and affirmative coming of age film that resonates.
The DVD comes with a trailer as its sole special feature. The A/V Quality sports a rather impressive transfer for an indie teen dramedy. The Dolby 5. 1 track also holds up far better than my initial viewing late last year. But, I guess that’s a testament to how well MPI has been handling the IFC titles. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase.
RELEASE DATE: 02/28/2012
