I know it’s just a coincidence that mid90s came out the same year as Minding the Gap. But it’s hard not to compare the two. Both are about skaters who rely on their friendship to withstand the pressures and difficulties of growing up. And both are, at times, hilarious and heartbreaking. The main thing I was left with after watching mid90s was this: Growing up can be very lonely and confusing, regardless of your surroundings and situation. You long for companionship and common ground with someone or something. Most of the time, the solution you find is imperfect. But it gets you through, for better and for worse. And you learn from it. Hopefully.
I think that’s what Jonah Hill was trying to show with this film. I think he achieved with this movie what he set out to achieve. And I’ll be keeping my eye out for his next project. I thought he brought something really fresh with this first foray into directing.
My only grievance is that the kid they picked for the main character just seems too young for the role. Maybe that’s what they were going for though. Showing just how young we’re thrust into the world unprepared. All the actors were great in this. Their camaraderie and group friendship felt natural and mostly authentic, which was necessary in order for this to work. Bottom line, I really liked this movie.