Summer, Self-Discovery & Waterparks ☀️ | The Way, Way Back (2013) Review - video Dailymotion

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Summer, Self-Discovery & Waterparks ☀️ | The Way, Way Back (2013) Review 💬 The Way, Way Back (2013) is a coming-of-age dramedy that’s equal parts funny, awkward, and deeply emotional. Directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, the film follows 14-year-old Duncan, a shy and introverted teen who finds an unlikely summer escape and sense of identity at a local water park — away from his mother’s toxic boyfriend and dysfunctional vacation life.  🌊 This film captures the pain and joy of growing up, the awkwardness of teenage life, and how one perfect summer can change everything.  🎥 In this video, we break down the plot, discuss key characters, and explore the themes of growth, mentorship, and emotional healing. If you love indie gems and coming-of-age stories with big heart, this one's for you!  👥 Full Cast & Crew: Liam James as Duncan  Toni Collette as Pam (Duncan’s mom)  Steve Carell as Trent (Pam’s boyfriend)  Sam Rockwell as Owen (Water park manager)  Allison Janney as Betty  AnnaSophia Robb as Susanna  Maya Rudolph as Caitlyn  Nat Faxon as Roddy  Jim Rash as Lewis  Directed by: Nat Faxon & Jim Rash Written by: Nat Faxon & Jim Rash Genre: Comedy, Drama, Coming-of-Age Released: 2013 Runtime: 1h 43m  🧠 Plot Summary: 14-year-old Duncan is stuck on a summer trip with his mom and her overbearing boyfriend, Trent, who constantly belittles him. Feeling out of place and unheard, Duncan escapes to the Water Wizz water park, where he meets Owen, the park’s laid-back, hilarious manager. Through friendship, mentorship, and small acts of rebellion, Duncan begins to come into his own — gaining the confidence to stand up for himself and discover who he really is. 🏷️ Tags: the way way back 2013, the way way back explained, coming of age movies, summer movie review, sam rockwell best roles, toni collette, liam james, water park movies, emotional growth films, indie drama comedy, the way way back cast, neoeditxx movie recap  🔥 Hashtags: #TheWayWayBack #ComingOfAge #SamRockwell #SteveCarell #MovieRecap #IndieDrama #SummerMovie #MovieBreakdown #NeoEditXX #EmotionalMovies #TeenDrama

Transcript

00:00A. New York lives a 14-year-old introvert boy named Duncan. His mom, Pam, has a boyfriend

00:05named Trent. He is a wealthy guy with a spoiled daughter, Steph. Trent frequently comments

00:09and acts rudely to him, while Steph has always been a daddy's girl and arrogant like her

00:13dad. One time, Trent brings the whole family out of town on a summer vacation. Duncan is

00:17reluctant to join, but he has no choice. He sits alone in the backseat, near the trunk.

00:22On the way to the beach house, Trent checks on Duncan to see if he is asleep. Hearing

00:26Trent's voice, Duncan feels his personal space is intruded by nonsense interrogation.

00:31Trent asks him to rate himself from 1 to 10. Duncan is unsure, replying he doesn't know

00:34in a soft voice. Trent gets irritated why he can't give the figures he already provided.

00:39He stresses the importance that one should have an opinion about himself. Silence fills

00:43the atmosphere because Duncan is staring blankly, thinking of something. Trent raises his voice

00:48to get his attention. This time, he is forcing the boy to pick a number. Duncan replies,

00:526, surprising Trent. He disagrees, saying he is only at 3. Duncan feels bad about himself

00:57even more for how the man belittles him. He lets him choose a number, but in the end,

01:01he insists he's only 3. Trent asks him if he knows the reason for his rate. Duncan replies,

01:06no, in a soft voice, pissing off Trent. He raises his voice, explaining he is 3 because

01:11he rarely goes outside and mingles with the kids his age. Trent's beach house is the best

01:15place to stay for Duncan. There are plenty of kids with whom he can bond. He promises

01:19it will be enjoyable for the happy and complete family he dreams of them. Trent challenges

01:23him to increase his self-rating and be the best version of himself. Trent indeed sounds

01:27caring in words, but Duncan can't feel it in his actions. The boy wears his headset

01:31to drown Trent's annoying voice. After a long drive, they arrive in a small seaside

01:35town near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Before the beach house, they pass by a local water

01:40park, Water Whiz, catching Duncan's attention. It looks fun, and the water activities include

01:46At the intersection, a man in a convertible car stares at Duncan. He makes him feel uncomfortable

01:50but soon after he smiles, Duncan realizes he is friendly. They part ways because the

01:55man turns in another direction. Soon after arriving at the house, Steph gets the keys

01:59from her dad. Trent gives them without hesitation. Meanwhile, Duncan looks at the home with curiosity.

02:04Pam kisses her son's shoulder, making him feel at ease in the new environment. While

02:08Trent unloads the things, a woman screams, enthusiastically greeting them. She is Betty,

02:13an associable and drunkard neighbor. Betty is a good friend of Trent and is extremely

02:16happy to see him again with the whole family. Betty hugs Trent and notices he still drives

02:20his dad's car. She also greets Pam, making jokes to light up the mood. Betty loves Pam

02:25instantly because of her sense of humor. Meanwhile, Duncan awkwardly stands behind them, shy to

02:30speak up. A teenage girl stands on the porch, curious after hearing her mom's loud laughs.

02:35She is Susana, Betty's daughter, who catches Duncan's attention. Their eyes met, but they

02:39do not smile or talk. Betty calls her daughter, informing Trent has arrived with his new girlfriend,

02:44Pam. Susana does not respond, so Betty just let her be. The slouching Duncan gets noticed

02:49by Betty. By seeing his posture, she can tell he is shy. Duncan only stares at Betty, not

02:53giving a smile as she greets him. Because of that, Pam is the one who introduces him

02:57to Betty. Meanwhile, Trent continues to unload the things, throwing a heavy and large bag

03:01at Duncan. The poor boy catches it without complaining. Since Duncan doesn't talk, Betty

03:06finds Steph instead, who is busy preparing for the beach, according to Trent. Betty is

03:10excited to see her mini version. She proudly shares to be as pretty and sexy as Steph,

03:14flaunting beach bodies under the sun. All of them head inside the house, and Duncan

03:18follows after. Talkative Betty shares how her winter went. It was bad because her niece

03:22suffered injuries. Not only that, Bob, her ex-husband, confessed he is gay, and her son

03:27is into addictive substances. Betty apologizes for Susana's behavior earlier. It's concerning

03:32because she is in the I hate mother phase, agreeing with her father most of the time.

03:36Steph getting some beer catches Betty's attention. Her outfit looks cute, but it's too revealing

03:40for Trent. Betty returns, talking about her family, and this time it's Peter, her youngest.

03:45She can pay for the surgery on his lazy eyes. However, it worsens, so Betty forces him to

03:49wear an eye patch. After keeping beers, Steph asks permission to leave. Trent suggests it's

03:54better to bring Duncan to the beach. Steph complains, refusing to babysit him throughout

03:58the summer. Duncan prefers staying at home, but seeing his mom and Trent kissing forces him to go

04:03with Steph. While heading to the beach, Steph warns Duncan to keep distance from her. She

04:07doesn't want to be humiliated by her friends because of him. Poor Duncan follows, walking

04:11slowly behind his stepsister. Steph boasts to the girls that she can host a party anytime at

04:15the beach house. She shares about her dad, permitting her to do anything to make her happy.

04:19Her friends envy her perfect life. Meanwhile, Susana, who hates mingling with mean girls,

04:24lies nearby, ignoring the proud Steph. Instead of gossiping, she prefers reading a book

04:29peacefully at the shore. Steph calls Chad, her boyfriend, to go with her in the water.

04:33Chad refuses, explaining he is busy playing with the boys. Steph is forced to go with friends

04:38instead. The girls wonder about Duncan, who is sitting nearby. Steph humiliates him, saying he

04:43and his mom lived in a one-bedroom apartment before her dad saved them from poverty. Duncan

04:47pretends not to hear it while playing in the sand. Steph calls Susana to go with them, leaving Duncan

04:51alone. On the way to the house, Duncan meets Betty with her son Peter. Duncan is confused if

04:56Peter is looking at him or on the side. Betty apologizes, informing him her son has lazy eyes.

05:01Duncan feels sorry but remains awkward during the conversation. Betty is the one talking,

05:05inviting Duncan to hang out with Peter. She suggests they should play the Star Wars doll

05:09collection. Peter corrects her saying those are not dolls but action figures. Duncan tells them

05:14he will ask first for his mom's permission. Betty agrees, but after he leaves, she lectures her son

05:19for not wearing the eye patch. Betty says his eyes make people uncomfortable, so he must hide them.

05:24Peter is hurt by telling her mom she is the worst parent. Duncan lays on the roof of Trent's car,

05:28singing Rio Speedwagon's hit Can't Fight This Feeling. He sings out of tune, hearing the song

05:33through the headset. Little did he know, Susana was standing for seconds, hearing his off-key voice.

05:38When Duncan realizes someone is there, he is embarrassed and jumps off the car.

05:41The married couple, Kip and Joan, visits Trent and Pam. Joan, the bubbly among the four,

05:46keeps dancing to the beat. She keeps pulling Trent from the kitchen to dance with her.

05:50Trent is busy preparing food for their drinking session while Pam sets up the table.

05:54Pam laughs at Joan, roaming around the house, high-spirited. Joan sees the awkward Duncan,

05:59pulling him to the dancefloor. Feeling uncomfortable, Duncan calls his mom. Pam

06:03joins Joan dancing, so Duncan also grooves awkwardly in the middle of them. Soon after,

06:07Steph goes out of the room, asking permission to leave. Steph gets two bottles of liquor,

06:11telling her parents she will have dinner with friends later. Trent sits in the living room,

06:15asking Duncan if he sat on the car's roof earlier. He found a large dent but was done

06:19popping it out. Trent let it pass, and Duncan denies he went there. Joan lays on the sofa,

06:24watching Pam busy setting up. She asks her if there is something she can do to help. Pam refuses,

06:29telling her to relax because their system in the kitchen with Trent is working well.

06:33Trent agrees, hugging Pam. Joan envies the two for being sweet before her. Everything is set,

06:37and they dine at the elegant table Pam prepared. Duncan is also there, behaving silently like he

06:42always does. The talkative Joan recalls how she slept in the dune after being drunk. Pam joins in

06:47the chat, but she eventually feels shy. The atmosphere becomes awkward, so Trent breaks the

06:52silence to save Pam from embarrassment. He shares how Pam loves catering, which explains why she

06:56knows how to set up the table like fine dining. She also loves to design and plans for a minimal

07:01renovation to the beach house. Kip and Joan are impressed by Trent's meeting an amazing woman.

07:05Pam sees her son bored with the conversation. She allows him to exit and do the things he wants.

07:10Duncan is relieved to escape the misery finally. However, Trent calls him to bring his plate to the

07:15sink and clean his mess. Duncan feels like an outcast everywhere he goes. He decides to stay

07:19on the porch for fresh air. Duncan sees Susana, and Betty is lecturing her for not closing the

07:24screen door. Pissed off, Susana bangs the door, making her mom call out her alarming behavior.

07:29Duncan pretends to look away when his eyes meet Susana's. The lady greets him, forcing himself

07:34to remain composed and talk to her. Duncan apologizes, telling her he does not intend

07:38to eavesdrop on her argument with Betty. Susana is okay with it, and asks him if he likes Rio

07:42Speedwagon. Duncan feels shy, confirming she heard him singing earlier. He stutters, explaining it's

07:48his mom's favorite. Eventually, the conversation gets awkward for Susana. She feels Duncan is

07:53uncomfortable talking to her too. Susana is heading inside when Duncan continues the conversation.

07:58He predicts it's going to be a hot summer. Susana turns around to hear him out. However,

08:02Duncan talks awkwardly again. Susana understands him, telling him she's inside if he wants someone

08:07to talk to. The next day, Duncan wakes up seeing the mess in the kitchen. Steph looks in the fridge

08:12for a beer but finds nothing. She is pissed off that they drank all the liquor last night. Duncan

08:16sees the home is boring, so he roams around the house. He finds a pink bicycle in a storage room

08:21and uses it to explore the town. For the first time, Duncan smiles genuinely, looking around at

08:26the beautiful sight. Duncan stops by a diner to buy soda. While quenching his thirst, a man playing

08:31Pac-Man catches his attention. Duncan goes nearer to the machine, where the guy requests him to stay

08:35on the side because his shadow is bothering him. Duncan apologizes, but the man says he has

08:40nothing to feel sorry for. It's just that it's his first time reaching the game's cherry level.

08:44Duncan likes his humor also because he is a Pac-Man lover. However, men in sky blue shirts

08:49call him, telling him the lunch break is over. The guy has no choice but to give up on the game.

08:53He still has another life, so he lets Duncan use it. He jokingly tells the boy not to go beyond

08:58his highest score. After losing the game, Duncan returns home, seeing his family packed up for a

09:03trip. Kip and Joan invited them over to their boat to hang out. Trent is mad that he left without

09:07leaving a note because his mom is worried. Pam requests her son to hurry up and get dressed

09:11because they will be late. At the yacht, Trent throws a life jacket at Duncan. The boy catches

09:16it but doesn't want to wear those. Trent forces him to do so because he can't swim. However,

09:20it's not because Trent wants him safe, but for him not to bother anyone if he falls into the water.

09:25Betty and her children also arrive to join them. Even in the boat, Duncan feels like an outcast.

09:30Steph and Susana go to the deck to sunbathe, and the adults make themselves comfy on the couch,

09:34enjoying themselves. Meanwhile, Duncan stays in the driver's seat, solely wearing a life jacket.

09:39Pam and Trent share their love story with everyone. Trent recalls how he played as a

09:43cop to win her heart. Pam finds him cheesy back then, saying he is willing to protect her.

09:48It took three months before Pam made it official, amusing Betty. Everyone enjoys the topic except

09:52Joan, who keeps glaring at Pam as she shares something about Trent. Pam notices her son,

09:57all alone, with a miserable face. Duncan feels disgusted seeing Trent kissing his mom.

10:02He's trying hard to be sweet in front of everyone. Pam explains his stepdad is making an effort for

10:06a complete and happy family with them. Duncan cannot feel it because it doesn't show in his

10:10actions. Duncan wishes to spend the summer with his dad but doesn't know why his mom won't allow

10:15him. Days pass and Duncan feels neglected by his mom, who indulges in drinking and staying out at

10:20night with their neighbors. They even leave a mess in the kitchen, and Duncan has no choice but to

10:24clean it. The next day, Duncan gets up, hearing giggles in the kitchen. There he finds his drunk

10:29parents and their friends eating breakfast. They invite him to eat, but he refuses. Instead, he

10:33gets the bicycle and drives to the water whiz. Susana wonders where he's heading, but she never

10:38asks. Duncan arrives at the parking area and locks the pink bicycle. Since he has no money for the

10:43entrance, he uses the door for employees to go inside. Duncan sits, watching the resort rides

10:47when someone notices him. He is calling him Pac-Man Kid, so he turns to see him. It was the

10:52guy at the diner. He is comfortably eating a snack on the balcony like he owns the park. He

10:56also asks how the game went, hoping he did not exceed his score. Suddenly, a woman nags at him

11:01for taking a break during working hours. There, Duncan realizes he is a staff of water whiz.

11:06Duncan has no idea about his name yet, but he is funny, defending himself to the hard-working lady

11:11on why he took a break. Duncan drives home, seeing Susana outside. She is teasing him for using a

11:16pink vehicle. Susana talks to him, saying he is right that summer will be too hot. Duncan doesn't

11:21reply but drives in circles to listen. There, Susana shares that she's out of the house,

11:25waiting for her dad's call. Her mother hates seeing her on the phone, so she stays near the

11:29streets. Duncan can relate because his mom does the same. Eventually, he bids goodbye, and Susana

11:34tells him to share another weather update again next time. Duncan returns the bicycle to the

11:38garage. He overhears his mom trying to find him, so he hides. He spent the whole day at the beach

11:43until it is dark. Duncan glances at his mom's room. Soon after she turns off the lights,

11:48he sneaks into the house. However, Trent, seated in the living area, catches him. He lectured the

11:53boy for not leaving a note again, making his mom worry. Trent reminds him to show respect,

11:57so that the family he is trying to build with them will work. The next day, Duncan revisits

12:01the water park, where he runs into the guy who played Pac-Man at the diner. He is Owen,

12:05a water whiz staff who loves violating rules. He is not wearing the employee shirt and strolling

12:10around the park like a boss. He jokes at Duncan to go home because he is having too much fun

12:14watching water activities. Duncan takes it seriously, standing up to exit the gates. Owen

12:19laughs, saying he is only joking. Owen looks at the boy's old pants, suggesting he should wear

12:23something suitable for swimming. He brings Duncan to Lewis, the booth staff in charge of clothes and

12:28life jacket rentals at the resort. Owen asks him to find the best trunk for Duncan. Lewis shares

12:33about a kid throwing up in the crazy tube. Owen never believes him because he sounds like he is

12:37joking. Lewis is one of the loyal staff at Water Whiz. Ten years ago, he expressed his intention

12:42to quit the job, but he never did. After wearing a swimming trunk, Owen takes Duncan to tour the

12:47resort. Water Whiz water park has existed for almost three decades already. The owner swore

12:52not to change a thing in the resort. The woman nagging at Owen yesterday walks with them.

12:56She is Caitlin, a hard-working staff, unlike Owen. She tells Owen to stop strolling around

13:00because a kid puked at the crazy tube. Owen pretends to be surprised even if he doesn't care.

13:05Caitlin reminds him to reorder more mats, accomplish the tasks scheduled for next week,

13:09and change the filters. Owen sounds confident, telling her he has already accomplished those.

13:14However, Caitlin says she will inspect later, making Owen admit he never did a thing.

13:18Owen rests his head on Caitlin to make her stop nagging. Soon after she leaves,

13:22Owen tells Duncan how Caitlin is madly in love with him.

13:25The next stop is the Devil's Peak, the largest waterslide in a 50-mile radius.

13:29It's a tube from end to end and measures like 13 football fields in length.

13:33Three kids have been dreaming of passing through Devil's Peak, and they are Vladimir,

13:36Ishmael, and Ming Lee. Those are not their names, but Owen calls them that way.

13:40Vladimir asks Owen if it's true that a kid figured out how to overtake someone in the waterslide.

13:44Owen says he was there when it happened but never spilled any information.

13:48The boys are annoyed at Owen for joking around. They want to know how the kid did it,

13:52dreaming of replicating such stunt next time.

13:54After the kids leave, Duncan asks Owen if it's true. However, he doesn't answer.

13:58A staff manages the load of people in Devil's Peak.

14:01He is Rod, Owen's friend, who takes advantage of girls sliding in.

14:04Owen instructs Duncan to take a mat because they will go down together.

14:07Duncan is extremely happy, laughing when his stomach tingles down the slide.

14:11After the impact, Duncan loses his trunk, making Owen laugh hard.

14:15Happiness ends because the park is closing early since it's a holiday.

14:18At the parking area, Duncan removes the lock of his bicycle when Owen stops by with his

14:22convertible car. He offers to drop him off at home.

14:25Duncan refuses, but after Owen learns he lives far, he insists.

14:29In the end, Duncan agrees and hops in the vehicle.

14:31While driving, Owen wonders why the boy frequently

14:34visits the park when he has all the ocean in the backyard.

14:36It's the only place Duncan feels happy, but he does not tell Owen.

14:40Duncan learns that the man has worked as a staff since he was a kid.

14:43This explains why he is too relaxed and unbothered at work.

14:46After dropping Duncan off, Owen asks him if he is free every day.

14:49He wants to offer him odd jobs at the park if he wants to.

14:52Duncan smiles and accepts the offer.

14:54Owen tells him that work starts at 9 AM the next day,

14:57and he is looking forward to his presence.

14:59Duncan runs into his mom at the door.

15:01She is holding a fruit, saying Betty is hosting a small get-together.

15:04She gets curious about the guy he is with earlier.

15:07He is too old to be hanging out with him.

15:09Duncan tells her it's only a friend, Owen.

15:11Pam suspects Owen is a bad influence on her son.

15:13She tells Duncan to bring him to the house next time, so she can get to know him.

15:17Before she forgets, Pam lectures her son to stop staying up all night and disappear all day.

15:21Duncan answers that there is no difference between what she does,

15:24drinking all night and day.

15:26Pam is speechless, realizing he is right.

15:28She invites him to come at Betty's and eat something.

15:30Pam arrives at Betty's, meeting the couple Kip and Joan and other drunkard friends.

15:34Steph calls Susana to sit with them, but she won't listen.

15:37Duncan arrives to see Susana on the balcony.

15:39Surprisingly, she smiles at him, but not at Steph.

15:42Betty notices Duncan's presence and tells him to play with Peter,

15:45which she believes to be hiding under the table.

15:47Pam asks his son if he wants her to get him some food.

15:50Duncan refuses because he can do it himself.

15:52Betty suggests that Duncan should get clams because it's freshly picked from the sea earlier.

15:56While Duncan gets food, he also talks to Peter,

15:59who is busy playing with his Star Wars action figures.

16:02He also hears Susana discouraging him from getting clams because they poison many.

16:06Duncan still gets some so as not to hurt Betty's feelings,

16:08but he will not eat those for Susana.

16:10Suddenly, the adults head to the beach, including Pam.

16:13Duncan is hurt because his mom will leave him again.

16:15It has not even been an hour when they talked and she disappeared again.

16:18Duncan dumps the food, dismayed by his mom.

16:21Susana feels sorry for Duncan,

16:23so she invites him to walk along the shore to find ghost crabs with Peter.

16:26Susana entertains Duncan to make him feel better.

16:29She shares how her dad used to bring her to the shore to find ghost crabs too.

16:32However, he has already left them and lives far away.

16:35Susana feels she's the only one doing the talk, thinking Duncan is annoyed by her.

16:39She is wrong because Duncan loves her company.

16:41He is concerned about his mom acting like a teen,

16:43going out at night, since they arrived at the beach house.

16:46Under the colorful fireworks, Susana shares about her mom.

16:49She feels that her dad leaving them is not what hurt Betty,

16:51but it is when he found another girl while she is still single and miserable.

16:55Duncan can relate because his dad also met a new girl, younger than his mom.

16:59Despite everything, Duncan doesn't hate his dad.

17:01He plans to visit San Diego someday if his mom permits him.

17:04Duncan and Susana enjoy their deep talks but decide to return home since it's already late.

17:09Duncan sees his mom having fun with friends.

17:11He looks around since Trent is not there.

17:13Suddenly, Duncan trembles, seeing Trent and Joan at the side of the house.

17:17They are both drunk and kissing.

17:18Trent pulls away and returns to his girlfriend as if nothing happened.

17:22Pam wonders why he only brought marshmallows after almost consuming an hour.

17:25Trent explains that Joan is carrying the rest.

17:27Joan walks tipsy, fixing her hair.

17:30At that moment, Pam suspects something is going on between them.

17:33However, she remains composed and does not confront Trent about this.

17:36Likewise, Duncan chooses not to tell his mom about Trent cheating.

17:39The next day, Duncan arrives late at work.

17:42Good thing Owen also violates rules, so it is not a big deal.

17:45He gives the boy an employee shirt they use at work.

17:47Duncan gladly accepts it, feeling like a regular staff of the park.

17:51Seeing Owen dancing makes Duncan feel better despite the problems at home.

17:54Lewis, on the other hand, complains about the t-shirt design and suggests

17:58making a new one because it makes him conscious of his body.

18:01Kaitlyn arrives, informing Owen there's a situation at the Harpoon Lagoon.

18:04Owen looks bothered and checks on it.

18:06Everyone leaves Lewis, but the old man is thankful to be only assigned to the booth.

18:10It is rarely visited by people, less stressful in general.

18:13They find group of dancers placing cardboard on the concrete for a break dance.

18:17Kaitlyn has no idea where they came from.

18:19Rod says they got the cardboard from a local store and headed there to perform.

18:23They observe them, making Owen bothered by the dangerous stunts they do.

18:26It's dangerous, especially since the guests are flocking around to watch.

18:29They must stop them, and Owen instructs Duncan to get the cardboard.

18:33Kaitlyn doubts the group will listen to the young boy.

18:35However, Owen is confident he can do that.

18:37He trusts Duncan more than himself.

18:39Anyway, he is wearing the staff's uniform, so he has the authority to stop them.

18:43Duncan is nervous since it's his first day at work,

18:46and the job is heavy for an introverted boy like him.

18:48Regardless, he dares to walk through the congested crowd.

18:51Duncan stops the music, making the group's leader furious.

18:54The guests are also mad at him for interrupting the moment.

18:57Duncan asks permission to get the cardboard.

18:59The leader allows him but on one condition, show them his moves.

19:02Duncan conquers his fears, performing in public.

19:05He dances awkwardly, but he continues because people cheer him.

19:08The dance group leader stops him, telling him he can get the cardboard.

19:11However, a member offers to teach him basic dance steps, seeing his potential.

19:16Duncan accepts the challenge.

19:17He follows her movements, making Owen proud.

19:19His dedication at work is admirable, doing everything for his job.

19:23Crowd cheers as Duncan grooves to the music.

19:25They call him a pop-and-lock guy for slaying pop-and-locking moves.

19:28In the end, the dance group leader allows him to remove the cardboard.

19:31Duncan is floating in air with the fulfillment he feels himself.

19:34He confidently walks to Owen and the other staff to surrender the cardboard.

19:38Days pass by, and Duncan does his best at the waterpark with Owen's guidance.

19:42He gets his first salary, and the staff is extremely happy for him.

19:45Duncan works daily, keeping it a secret from his mom,

19:48who is busy indulging in alcohol and night outs.

19:51Duncan becomes confident and is now assigned to the Devil's Peak, taking Rod's shift.

19:56Duncan is managing a load of people to slide when the three stubborn boys,

19:59Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee arrive.

20:02The three of them jump to the slide without waiting for his signal.

20:05At first, their excitement can be heard, but later on, it turns into an alarming scream.

20:09Their mats fell to the pool, but not their bodies.

20:11Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee screamed for help

20:14because they were stuck in the curved part of the slide.

20:16Duncan whistles, requesting a rescue.

20:18Owen and Rod rush to the peak, checking on the problem.

20:21Duncan tells them the kids jumped together without his signal.

20:24Owen shouts to the tube to communicate with them.

20:26The boys confirm they are stuck and they need help.

20:28The three of them blame each other for violating safety rules.

20:31Owen shouts to the people lining up at the pool.

20:33He asks for someone strong and brave to save the kids.

20:36Someone offers to help, named Malcolm.

20:38He is a chubby guy, so Owen warns the boys to brace themselves for a strong impact.

20:42Rod and Owen push Malcolm to the tube.

20:44Everyone awaits them at the pool, including Owen and Kaitlyn.

20:47They did.

20:48Malcolm is able to save them.

20:49Owen welcomes Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee instead of lecturing them.

20:53This pisses off Kaitlyn because they should be punished for violating the safety rules of the park.

20:58Owen disagrees, telling her there's no need to do that.

21:00Instead, they should be thankful that the kids are alive.

21:03His reply made Kaitlyn furious.

21:05If Owen continues his attitude, she will not be surprised that the park closes.

21:09After Kaitlyn walks out, Duncan apologizes to Owen for not guarding the slide well.

21:13Owen stops him from explaining because it's not his fault.

21:16After the incident, a series of rainy days take place, and no one visits the resort.

21:20The silent waterpark concerns Owen.

21:22He is not used to watching the pool and slides empty from the view of his apartment.

21:26He remembers Kaitlyn yesterday saying the waterpark will definitely close under his

21:29lenient management.

21:31In the same manner, Duncan looks lonely sitting in the living area with his family.

21:34The waterpark is the only place that makes him happy, but no guests visit there when raining.

21:39Pam suggests rainy days mean a family bonding at home.

21:42Trent agrees, saying they should watch movies together, then invite over Kip and Joan.

21:46Hearing Joan's name makes Pam recall him cheating the last time.

21:49She has not yet confronted him, so Trent has no idea she knows.

21:52Pam disagrees with Trent, saying she doesn't feel like hanging out with Kip and Joan.

21:56She shows them the candy land board to play with.

21:58At first, they are all excited about choosing their character.

22:01Not until Trent triggers Pam's anger because of a small reason.

22:04The two of them argue about the game rules, making Pam furious.

22:08Her anger is also not just about the game but also about Trent's cheating.

22:11She becomes irritable and walks out.

22:13Duncan would have no idea if his mom knew about Trent and Joan.

22:16He is reluctantly telling her, knowing she will be hurt.

22:19The next day, Duncan goes to Water Whiz because the weather is fine.

22:22Susana, who sees him every morning with the pink bicycle, follows him.

22:25There, she learns Duncan works at Water Whiz.

22:28The moment Duncan enters the park, he cannot contain his happiness.

22:31Surprisingly, Owen is wiping the chairs, which he skips most of the time.

22:35Owen is surprised he came, even if it's his day off.

22:37Duncan offers a hand since he was not able to work yesterday.

22:40Kaitlyn arrives, but she's not mad at Owen anymore.

22:43She bursts laughing, seeing his shirt worn on the wrong side.

22:46Guests start to arrive at Water Whiz.

22:48While Duncan arranges the chair horizontally, Susana startles him.

22:51Duncan asks how she knew he worked at the park.

22:53Susana admits following him earlier.

22:55She returned home after, then went back to the park to see him.

22:58Susana learns his mom doesn't know about him working.

23:01Their conversation is interrupted when Rod and Owen tease Duncan.

23:04Owen announces at the mic to call Duncan's attention.

23:07Duncan insists they are only friends, and she is older than him.

23:09However, Rod and Owen are not convinced.

23:12They congratulate the boy for catching a pretty girl.

23:14Duncan entertains Susana at the park by watching the different slides.

23:18Duncan has become popular with girls at the water park, calling him a pop-and-lock guy.

23:22After having a meal, Duncan returns to work while Susana stays by his side.

23:26One of Duncan's odd jobs is to remove things in the locker,

23:29like stinky undergarments and socks.

23:31Duncan cleans the mess after the guests are gone.

23:33It's already late, but Susana accompanies him in arranging things

23:36until the water park is set for the opening the next day.

23:39Steph envies the two for hanging out without her.

23:41Susana is surprised because she did not say they had plans.

23:44Steph requests her to be by her side because there's so much going on in her life.

23:48Duncan notices the parking lot is empty.

23:50His mom also looks lonely, telling them dinner is ready.

23:53Duncan bids goodbye to Susana to go inside.

23:55The family waits for Trent before eating.

23:57Hours pass by but never return, so Pam tells the kids to start eating.

24:01Pam overhears Steph earlier, confessing to Susana she's lonely.

24:04She asks the lady how things are going on between her and Chad.

24:07Steph stutters, sharing they already broke up.

24:09Pam apologizes for hearing that and comforts her.

24:12While Pam washes the dishes, Steph offers to help, happy about cheering her earlier.

24:16In the middle of the night, Duncan hears Trent and her mom arguing.

24:19Trent insists he only stayed all day at Cib's boat, and he lost track of time.

24:23He did not call, concerned about waking her up.

24:26Pam starts crying, forcing Trent to tell her everything she must know.

24:29Trent swears he is not keeping a secret.

24:31He hugs Pam, assuring her all is fine.

24:33Duncan eavesdrops behind the wall.

24:35He is teary, watching his mom hurt and recalling Trent's cheating.

24:38The next day, Trent goes to the kitchen and sees Pam in a good mood.

24:41She believes Trent's explanation for arriving late last night.

24:44Duncan's blood boils for his mom playing blind to Trent's behavior.

24:48Duncan walks away and bumps into Trent.

24:50He is greeting him good morning, but Duncan is too furious to respond respectfully.

24:54Another night of partying.

24:55Pam and Betty sit together with Duncan, Susana, and Steph.

24:58Betty is talking behind Joan's back for only ordering food for a party.

25:02Joan arrives, apologizing for being late.

25:04She pulls Trent to the dance floor, making Pam uncomfortable.

25:07Kip joins the table where Betty asks him to host another party on his boat.

25:11Kip would love to but apologizes because his boat's motor has been damaged for more than

25:15weeks already.

25:16He will start repairing it once the parts arrive.

25:18Pam freezes, hearing that Kip's boat is not working.

25:21Trent says last night they went boating together.

25:23She trembles, confused about everything.

25:25Her mind says Trent is cheating, but her heart wants to keep him.

25:28Pam is teary and excuses herself before everyone notices.

25:31As a son, Duncan knows what his mom feels.

25:34Joan and Trent dance too close, but Pam chooses to be silent.

25:37In the middle of the party's venue, Duncan tells his mom to do something about Trent's

25:41cheating.

25:41He speaks so loudly that everyone looks at them.

25:44Trent and Joan seem guilty, but Trent tries to stop Duncan.

25:47However, Duncan is furious, and no one can stop him from fighting for his mom.

25:51Duncan pushes Trent.

25:52Good thing Kip is there to protect Duncan from Trent's punch.

25:55Unable to convince his mom to confront Trent and Joan, Duncan walks away.

25:58Susana finds Duncan at the shore.

26:00She tries comforting him by sharing that she talked to her dad yesterday.

26:04His dad is delighted to hear they went searching for ghost crabs.

26:07Duncan feels better because of Susana's presence.

26:09He leans at her, initiating a kiss.

26:11Susana is surprised and stops him.

26:13Embarrassed, Duncan apologizes and runs away.

26:16Duncan seems lost, not knowing where to go.

26:18At Betty's home, he overhears Trent apologizing.

26:21He admits he cheated but plays like a victim for Pam to forgive him.

26:24Duncan is teary out of pity for his mom for giving another chance to a man breaking her

26:28heart.

26:28Suddenly, Peter, who is under the balcony playing action figures, shouts Duncan's name.

26:33Duncan hides before his mom sees him.

26:35Pam hears someone calling her son, so she looks around the porch to see if he is there.

26:39Peter pleads with Duncan to take him anywhere.

26:41Duncan refuses because it's already late.

26:43Eventually, he agrees after Peter threatens to shout his name again.

26:46Duncan takes him to the water whiz on his pink bike.

26:49The water park is already closed, so Duncan climbs the fences to get in.

26:52Owen arrives, telling him he wastes energy because the gate is open.

26:55Owen invites the two to get inside.

26:57Duncan is confused, but he follows after seeing his co-workers going inside.

27:01The water whiz staff are throwing farewell party for Lewis.

27:04He filed a resignation telling everyone he was serious this time.

27:07Owen introduces Duncan and his pirate friend.

27:10Peter wears an eye patch, and Owen thinks it is a costume.

27:13While everyone is having fun, Peter tries to sneak a can of beer, but Owen sees him.

27:17There, Duncan introduces the little boy to Owen.

27:19Peter is a confident and funny kid, making Owen adore him at their first meet.

27:23Owen wonders why he is wearing a patch.

27:25Peter's face turns lonely, sharing his mom forces him to cover his eye because it confuses people.

27:30Owen gets curious and asks if he can see his eye.

27:33Peter shows it, but Owen doesn't make fun of him.

27:35He finds it cool and cheers up the boy for having rare eyes.

27:38Peter feels good about himself because of Owen's compliment.

27:41Peter asks him if he can join the adult party.

27:43Owen does not think twice and permits him.

27:45After the kid leaves, Owen asks Duncan the reason he came.

27:48Duncan tells him something happened at home, forcing him to visit his happy place.

27:52He does not explain it further, but Owen gets it.

27:55Duncan gets pizza to share with Rod and Owen.

27:57They watch everyone getting wild while dancing.

27:59Owen decides it's time for Lewis to have the floor and say something.

28:02Suddenly, Rod asks Duncan if he wants to be part of a tradition.

28:05The boy nods yes, so Rod leads him to get something.

28:08Lewis thanked everyone for making his last day memorable.

28:11At first, he has no idea what to say but then recalls the great memories he shared

28:15with other employees at the water park.

28:17Before he gets emotional, Duncan targets him with a water gun.

28:20Rod serves as a backup who also enjoys firing him.

28:23Lewis protects himself, but Rod pushes a box containing more water guns.

28:27Everyone grabs one, targeting each other.

28:29After the water gun tradition, they spent the night dancing.

28:32More energetic this time because of liquor.

28:34Lewis did not miss the opportunity to dance with them.

28:36He showcases his moves, entertaining everyone.

28:39Meanwhile, Duncan's eyes are fixed on the bulletin board with pinned pictures of Water Whiz staff.

28:43He sees a picture of himself, and he can't explain the fulfillment he feels in being part of a family.

28:48The family who gives him a real home.

28:50Owen apologizes to Caitlin.

28:51He admits he is an immature staff.

28:53Caitlin laughs, asking for forgiveness because she was frustrated that day.

28:57Caitlin is supposed to work only in the summer, but she is currently in her three years at the park.

29:01She has poured all her efforts into keeping the place organized.

29:04That's why she exploded seeing Owen chilling in the middle of an accident.

29:07Owen promises it won't happen again and kisses her forehead after.

29:11Duncan is happy from afar, seeing them reconcile.

29:13The party is over, but Duncan remains at the park.

29:16Owen wonders why so he asks him.

29:18Duncan tells him he would love to stay there forever.

29:20Owen laughs, thinking he is joking.

29:22Duncan says he is serious because the water park is the only place that makes him happy.

29:26Owen stops smiling, realizing it's not the time to joke around.

29:29He advises the boy to let go of the idea of settling at the park because the world offers more.

29:34At that moment, Duncan shares how he hates his mom's boyfriend.

29:37He rates him as three, which he finds rude.

29:39Owen comforts the man saying Trent did that because he doesn't know him well.

29:43He encourages him to go on his path, not listening to Trent or anyone else.

29:46Owen shares that his father is also like Trent.

29:49He is against his life choices and forcing rules that are way beyond his reach.

29:53That is why Owen doesn't follow the rules, even wearing an employee's shirt.

29:56In the end, Owen hugs Duncan, telling him he is not alone.

29:59Duncan and Peter return home.

30:01Betty is mad at Peter for disappearing all night without asking permission.

30:04Meanwhile, Duncan finds all their luggage outside.

30:07Trent greets him, telling him they are leaving early to start a new life.

30:10He requests him to forget about last night and think of it as if it never happened.

30:14Steph glares at Duncan, blaming him for ruining her summer vacation.

30:17Duncan finds his mom also packing her things.

30:20He wonders why they need to go with Trent after all he did.

30:22Pam is emotional, saying they need to leave to protect the family.

30:26She also tells him he is too young to understand everything.

30:28Betty hugs Pam, motivating her to be strong because she is a great woman.

30:32Meanwhile, Susana and Duncan bid goodbye to each other for the last time.

30:36Susana kisses him, making Duncan's heart melt.

30:38All is set, so Trent starts driving.

30:40Meanwhile, Betty and Susana stayed on the road until they could not see their vehicle.

30:44They pass by Water Whiz, making Duncan emotional.

30:47Trent stops by at the gasoline station nearby so Duncan has a chance to look at

30:50the Devil's Peak for the last time.

30:52However, he feels that the park is calling him.

30:55Duncan runs to Water Whiz, worrying about his mother.

30:57Meanwhile, Trent is pissed off at Duncan, delaying their long trip.

31:01Duncan casually tells Owen he will return home.

31:03The boy also announces this to other staff.

31:05Duncan tells Owen he wants to pass him at Devil's Peak.

31:08The three kids, Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee, get thrilled.

31:11They climb to the slide, announcing to everyone that the Pop N Lock guy will

31:14try overtaking Owen in the tube.

31:16People flock around Devil Peak to witness an exciting event.

31:19Meanwhile, Pam sees her son's photo tagged as the best employee.

31:23At that moment, she realized it was why Duncan was gone all day.

31:26Pam regrets drinking all night instead of spending time with her son during the vacation.

31:30She feels proud even if Duncan does not mention he is working.

31:33Rod feels nervous about Duncan doing the most difficult stunt on the slide.

31:36Meanwhile, Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee cannot wait to see if Duncan can make it.

31:41Owen jumps first, followed by Duncan.

31:43The crowd cheers, creating an exciting atmosphere.

31:45Pam is also excited for his son, awaiting his landing on the pool.

31:49Everyone could see their shadows passing the tube,

31:51but they could not tell if Duncan already passes Owen.

31:54All eyes are at the end of the tube because they are almost near.

31:56People scream, seeing Duncan successfully overtake Owen.

31:59Pam applauds, proud of Duncan.

32:01She is still processing that her son impresses everyone.

32:04Owen raises Duncan's hands, telling everyone he is the first man to pass someone on a slide.

32:09The curious kids, Vladimir, Ishmael, and Ming Lee, ask Owen how it becomes possible.

32:13Duncan and Owen only laugh at them, not disclosing their trick.

32:16Duncan introduces Owen to his mom.

32:18The man she suspects is a bad influence, but the one who motivated her son to go on his way.

32:23Trent interrupts, trying to pull Duncan back to the car.

32:25Good thing Owen is there to protect the boy.

32:27Trent leaves, feeling embarrassed by Owen.

32:29Duncan asks his mom to give him a minute before leaving.

32:32Pam agrees, letting him say goodbye to his friends.

32:35Caitlin, Rod, and Louis lines up to wish him well.

32:37Yes, Louis is still working in the park.

32:39He changes his mind after the farewell party.

32:42Duncan cannot look at Owen's eyes because he is teary.

32:44He failed to say a word, so he just hugged him tightly.

32:47Inside the car, Pam realizes she can also stand up for herself like what her son did.

32:51She climbs to the way way back of the car where Duncan is sitting.

32:54Trent calls her, but she never listens.

32:56This time, Pam wants to live the life she wants, unbothered by him.

Summer, Self-Discovery & Waterparks ☀️ | The Way, Way Back (2013) Review

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