Reviving Nostalgia: A Deep Dive into Mid90s on Blu-ray and Digital
A Journey Through Nostalgia: My Thoughts on Mid90s (BLURAY, Digital)
When I first heard about Mid90s, directed by the multifaceted Jonah Hill, I was immediately intrigued. As someone who not only grew up in the ‘90s but also spent a considerable part of my adolescence skateboarding, the film promised to strike a chord with my own memories. It stars Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges, Katherine Waterston, and Na-kel Smith—an eclectic cast that piqued my curiosity and made me wonder what stories would unfold in the sun-baked streets of Los Angeles.
At its heart, Mid90s is an intimate coming-of-age film that beautifully encapsulates the complex blend of friendship, freedom, and the struggle that often accompanies adolescence. Suljic plays Stevie, a thirteen-year-old searching for solace from his troubled home life. His journey into skate culture leads him to forge bonds with a group of young skaters, each representing different facets of youth rebellion and authenticity. What struck me was how the film portrays this world not just as a backdrop, but as a crucial character in itself—full of grit, camaraderie, and the raw imperfections of growing up.
Jonah Hill’s direction feels refreshingly authentic, especially in its attention to detail. The cinematography, akin to a faded photograph, evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. It’s like re-reading an old diary, with every scene packed with emotional depth and subtle humor. The decision to shoot in a 4:3 aspect ratio further enhances this feeling, transporting viewers back to a time before smartphones dominated our lives. The soundtrack is equally compelling, blending iconic ‘90s tracks that not only amplify the film’s atmosphere but also serve as a poignant reminder of the era.
One memorable moment that resonated deeply with me was when Stevie asks, “What’s your favorite trick?” It’s a simple question, but it encapsulates the spirit of exploration and belonging—a theme that reverberates throughout the film. Many viewers have noted how invested they became in the struggles and triumphs of the characters, wishing they could stay with them a bit longer, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a testament to the depth of the character dynamics that Hill captures so artfully.
Reviewers have echoed this sentiment, with one remarking on the film’s "natural bond" between cast members, noting it as a "feel-good movie." I found this particularly poignant, as it reflects how genuine connections can arise from shared interests and experiences, even amidst the chaos of adolescence.
If you’re someone who cherishes the raw, unfiltered artistry of cinema, or if you find a nostalgic pull to the ’90s culture—from the skateparks to the mixtapes—Mid90s is a must-watch. It’s not only a visual and auditory experience but also a heartfelt reminder of the sometimes tumultuous journey through teenage years. It left me thinking about my own adolescence, the friends I had, and the complexity of the feelings we navigated.
In conclusion, Mid90s is more than just a skateboarding film; it’s a celebration of youth—the good, the bad, and everything in-between. Whether you’re a skateboard enthusiast or simply someone seeking a relatable story wrapped in the warmth of nostalgia, this film is an invitation to reminisce, feel, and connect in a way that’s both profound and authentic. So, grab a blanket, pour yourself a favorite drink, and let this beautiful piece of cinema take you back to a time that shaped so many of us.
