The King Of Staten Island: A Hilarious & Heartfelt Review

The King of Staten Island is a 2020 comedy-drama film directed by Judd Apatow, starring Pete Davidson, Marisa Tomei, Bill Burr, and Steve Buscemi. The film is a semi-autobiographical take on Davidson's life, exploring themes of grief, mental health, and the struggles of growing up. Is it worth watching? Absolutely! Let’s dive into why this movie resonates with so many.

A Deep Dive into Grief and Growth

At its core, The King of Staten Island is a story about dealing with loss. Pete Davidson plays Scott Carlin, a young man grappling with the death of his firefighter father, who died when Scott was just seven years old. This profound loss has stunted Scott's emotional growth, leaving him adrift and struggling to find purpose in his life. He spends his days smoking weed, hanging out with his friends, and aimlessly pursuing a career as a tattoo artist, despite lacking the drive and ambition to truly succeed.

The film masterfully portrays the complexities of grief, showing how it can manifest in different ways. For Scott, it's a combination of arrested development and self-destructive behavior. He's stuck in a perpetual state of adolescence, unable to move forward and confront his pain. This is something many viewers can relate to, as grief often doesn't follow a linear path and can resurface unexpectedly.

However, The King of Staten Island isn't just a heavy drama. Judd Apatow infuses the film with his signature comedic style, creating a balanced and engaging viewing experience. The humor often arises from Scott's outlandish antics and his interactions with the colorful characters in his life. These moments of levity provide much-needed relief from the more serious themes, making the film both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Pete Davidson's Standout Performance

One of the biggest strengths of The King of Staten Island is Pete Davidson's performance. Drawing from his own personal experiences, Davidson brings authenticity and vulnerability to the role of Scott. You can feel his pain, his confusion, and his longing for something more. It's a raw and honest portrayal that resonates deeply.

Davidson's comedic timing is also on full display, delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. He effortlessly blends humor and pathos, creating a character that is both flawed and endearing. It's a performance that showcases Davidson's range as an actor and solidifies his position as one of the most talented young performers working today.

Marisa Tomei also shines as Scott's mother, Margie. She portrays a woman struggling to balance her own needs with the needs of her son. Margie is both supportive and exasperated by Scott's behavior, and Tomei captures this dynamic perfectly. Her performance adds depth and nuance to the film, highlighting the challenges faced by families dealing with grief and mental health issues.

Bill Burr delivers a standout performance as Ray Bishop, a firefighter who starts dating Scott's mother. Ray represents everything Scott is not: responsible, mature, and driven. Their relationship is initially fraught with tension, but as the film progresses, they begin to find common ground. Burr brings a tough-love energy to the role, challenging Scott to step up and take responsibility for his life.

Apatow's Signature Style: Comedy with Heart

Judd Apatow is known for his ability to blend comedy and drama, and The King of Staten Island is no exception. The film is filled with hilarious moments, but it also tackles serious issues with sensitivity and insight. Apatow's films often explore the complexities of human relationships, and this film is no different. He creates characters that are relatable and flawed, making their struggles all the more compelling.

The King of Staten Island also benefits from Apatow's improvisational style. Many of the scenes feel natural and spontaneous, thanks to the actors' ability to riff off each other. This adds to the film's authenticity and makes the characters feel even more real.

Apatow's direction allows the actors to truly shine, giving them the space to explore their characters and bring their own experiences to the roles. This collaborative approach results in a film that feels both personal and universal.

Staten Island: More Than Just a Backdrop

The film is set in Staten Island, and the location plays a significant role in the story. Staten Island is often portrayed as an overlooked and forgotten borough of New York City, and the film captures this feeling of isolation. Scott and his friends are stuck in a rut, unable to escape the confines of their small town.

However, The King of Staten Island also celebrates the unique culture and community of Staten Island. The film showcases the borough's diverse population and its strong sense of identity. It's a love letter to Staten Island, warts and all.

The film's depiction of Staten Island is authentic and relatable, avoiding the stereotypes that often plague portrayals of the borough. It's a nuanced and affectionate portrayal that adds depth to the story.

Themes That Resonate

The King of Staten Island explores several themes that resonate with audiences, including:

• Grief and Loss: The film's central theme is the impact of grief on a person's life. It shows how loss can shape our identity and affect our ability to move forward.
• Mental Health: Scott struggles with depression and anxiety, and the film portrays these issues with sensitivity and honesty. It highlights the importance of seeking help and finding healthy coping mechanisms.
• Growing Up: The film is a coming-of-age story about a young man who is forced to confront his past and take responsibility for his future. It explores the challenges of finding your place in the world and becoming an adult.
• Family and Community: The film emphasizes the importance of family and community in helping us navigate difficult times. It shows how strong relationships can provide support and guidance.

These themes are universal and relatable, making The King of Staten Island a film that speaks to a wide audience.

Is The King of Staten Island Worth Watching?

So, is The King of Staten Island worth watching? Absolutely! It's a funny, heartfelt, and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Pete Davidson delivers a standout performance, and Judd Apatow's direction is spot-on. Whether you're a fan of comedy, drama, or both, this film has something to offer.

The King of Staten Island is a must-see for anyone who has ever struggled with grief, mental health issues, or the challenges of growing up. It's a reminder that it's okay to not be okay, and that healing is possible.

Final Verdict

The King of Staten Island is a triumph. It's a deeply personal and relatable film that showcases the talents of Pete Davidson and Judd Apatow. With its blend of humor and heart, it's a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and think. Don't miss it!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. A must-watch!