10 Amazing Movies Nobody Knows About
6. The Wackness
The first of two Josh Peck-starring movies on this list now, with 2008's outstanding coming-of-age film The Wackness - an early effort from acclaimed director Jonathan Levine (50/50, The Night Before, Long Shot).
Peck stars as Luke Shapiro, a troubled young man who deals weed to Dr. Jeffrey Squires (Ben Kingsley) in exchange for therapy sessions, all while developing a crush on Squires' stepdaughter Steph (Olivia Thirlby).
Levine's film absolutely nails the vibe and atmosphere of a summer in mid-'90s New York City, but what truly makes it sing is the typically remarkable work from Kingsley and, more unexpectedly at the time, Peck, who fresh off his tenure on Drake & Josh gives a perceptive performance atypical of this well-trod genre.
Even if you can't directly identify with Luke's own journey, there's still plenty to relate to here for anyone who's ever struggled with transitioning into adulthood - that is, basically everyone.
Thanks to its witty dialogue and sharp performances, The Wackness is a rare coming-of-age film which truly transcends the formula to deliver something that feels distinct and very much its own thing.