Big Time Adolescence

Orley is a funny but tricky writer, and in scene after scene, his ear for dialogue is just right - it's natural but heightened, funny without sounding too "written."

Its characters aside, "Big Time Adolescence" has a lot of growing up to do.

It's a coming-of-age movie that relies on the cracked charm of its in-house boorish role model...and the usual storytelling beats.

This is a sweet and touching movie that makes perfect use of Pete Davidson and is far smarter than you might assume it to be.

The script by writer/director Orley does have the guts to embrace a tougher-than-normal inevitable crash-and-burn, but the predictability outweighs even the grimy observational tone.

There's something magical about goony Pete Davidson in a grocery store asking, "Yo, bro, you have any pea shoots?" I can't explain why it's funny. And that's exactly what makes it so funny.

Big Time Adolescence is one of the best dramedies of the year. Don’t miss it.

Hulu’s Big Time Adolescence doesn’t have enough depth, quick wit, or earnestness to stand out in a jam-packed genre– even if they all practiced social distancing.

The tone of the comedy, trading on toxic masculinity and adolescent awkwardness, isn’t that charming nor does it reach a thematic conclusion that makes it feel earned.

Orley has a knack for getting what he needs out of scenes and cutting away before they overstay their welcome.