„Sturro“ (The Wackness) is an American comedy-drama film written and directed by Jonathan Levine. Set in New York City in the summer of 1994, a period in which hip-hop culture, a changing city, and the insecurities of youth shape a nostalgic coming-of-age story. After premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, the film won the Audience Award and established itself as one of the most exciting independent films of the year.
The story follows Luke Shapiro, a lonely and withdrawn teenager who spends his summer vacation selling marijuana to various clients around Manhattan. One of them is psychiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Squires, who instead of paying for the drugs with money, offers therapy sessions. Gradually, an unusual friendship develops between the two, which makes Luke look at life and his future in a different way. Complications begin when he falls in love with his therapist's stepdaughter, Stephanie, and his feelings put all the relationships around him to the test.
In the role of Luke Josh Peck gives the most mature performance of his career to date, demonstrating that he can successfully break away from his comedic television image. Ben Kingsley impresses as the eccentric and confused Dr. Squires, creating a character that is both funny and sad. Olivia Thirlby is convincing as Stephanie, and among the other actors stand out Famke Jansen, Mary-Kate Olsen, Jane Addams, Method Me and Joshua Schaefer.
The direction of Jonathan Levine successfully recreates the atmosphere of New York in the 90s. The film does not rely on big dramatic twists, but emphasizes natural conversations, relationships between characters and the feeling of transition between adolescence and adulthood. The musical selection, which includes iconic hip-hop artists such as Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, The Notorious B.I.G., A Tribe Called Quest and Raekwon, which contribute to the authentic atmosphere.
After its premiere, "„Sturro“" received mostly positive reviews from critics. The original script, direction, and chemistry between the Josh Peck and Ben Kingsley, as well as the film's ability to be simultaneously funny, melancholic, and sincere. Over the years, the production has become one of the most highly regarded independent coming-of-age films produced in the first decade of the 21st century.
„Sturro“" is an intelligent and emotional comedy-drama that tells the story of first love, friendship and the difficult path to adulthood. Thanks to excellent acting performances, a strong script and the authentic atmosphere of New York in the 90s, the film deservedly remains one of the best independent titles in the genre.
