The King of Staten Island (2020) Movie Review: A Heartfelt and Humorous Coming-of-Age Tale
Introduction
“The King of Staten Island,” directed by Judd Apatow and released in 2020, is a semi-autobiographical dramedy that delves into the life of a young man navigating grief, maturity, and the pursuit of his own path. Starring Pete Davidson, who co-wrote the screenplay with Apatow and Dave Sirus, the film offers a poignant and often humorous look at personal growth and family dynamics. In this review, we will explore the film’s plot, performances, themes, and its reception, along with where you can watch it online.
Plot Overview
The film follows Scott Carlin (Pete Davidson), a 24-year-old aspiring tattoo artist living in Staten Island. Scott is struggling with his own lack of direction and maturity while grappling with the loss of his firefighter father, who died in the line of duty when Scott was a child. His life revolves around his close-knit group of friends and his mother, Margie (Marisa Tomei), who is trying to move forward with her life.
Scott’s world is upended when his mother starts dating Ray (Bill Burr), a firefighter who reminds Scott of his father. The arrival of Ray creates tension and jealousy, as Scott feels threatened by the prospect of his mother moving on and the new dynamic it introduces into their family life.
As Scott wrestles with his emotions and finds himself at odds with Ray, he must also confront his own shortcomings and aspirations. The film depicts Scott’s journey as he begins to take responsibility for his life, explore his potential, and make strides toward maturity.
Performances
Pete Davidson delivers a standout performance as Scott Carlin. Davidson brings authenticity and vulnerability to the role, drawing on his own experiences to portray a character who is both flawed and relatable. His portrayal of Scott is both humorous and heartfelt, capturing the essence of a young man caught between the comfort of adolescence and the pressures of adulthood. Davidson’s comedic timing and emotional depth make Scott’s journey engaging and impactful.
Marisa Tomei, as Scott’s mother, Margie, offers a nuanced and empathetic performance. Tomei’s portrayal captures the complexity of a mother who is trying to balance her own needs with the responsibilities of raising a grown child. Her chemistry with Davidson adds depth to their mother-son relationship, making their interactions both touching and realistic.
Bill Burr brings a surprising depth to his role as Ray, Scott’s mother’s new boyfriend. Known for his comedic work, Burr shows his range by delivering a performance that is both tough and tender. Ray is a character who could easily have been a one-dimensional antagonist, but Burr’s portrayal adds layers of complexity and warmth.
Riki Lindhome and Bel Powley, who play Scott’s friends, also contribute to the film’s humor and authenticity. Their interactions with Scott help to flesh out his character and provide a broader sense of his social world.
Themes and Symbolism
“The King of Staten Island” explores several themes, including grief, personal growth, and the search for identity.
Grief and Healing: The film poignantly addresses the impact of losing a loved one and the long-term effects of unresolved grief. Scott’s struggle to come to terms with his father’s death and the way it has shaped his life is central to the story. The film shows how grief can manifest in various ways and how the process of healing involves confronting one’s past and making changes in the present.
Personal Growth and Maturity: Scott’s journey is also a coming-of-age story about finding one’s path and taking responsibility for one’s life. The film depicts his struggle to transition from adolescence to adulthood and the challenges he faces in understanding his own potential and ambitions. Scott’s interactions with Ray and his gradual acceptance of responsibility are key aspects of his growth.
Family Dynamics: The film delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the impact of a parent’s new partner on a grown child. The tension between Scott and Ray highlights the difficulties of adjusting to changes within a family and the process of coming to terms with new dynamics. The film explores the idea that family can be both a source of comfort and a challenge as individuals navigate their relationships with each other.
Cinematography and Direction
Judd Apatow’s direction in “The King of Staten Island” balances humor with emotional depth, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Apatow’s experience with character-driven comedies is evident in the film’s well-crafted dialogue and relatable situations.
The cinematography, by Robert Elswit, captures the gritty, suburban landscape of Staten Island, adding authenticity to the film’s setting. The film’s visual style complements its tone, with intimate, naturalistic shots that enhance the emotional impact of the story.
Reception and Impact
“The King of Staten Island” received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its heartfelt performances and Apatow’s ability to blend comedy with drama. Pete Davidson’s performance, in particular, was noted for its emotional honesty and depth. The film’s exploration of grief and personal growth resonated with many viewers, offering a relatable and nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by young adults.
The film also stood out for its honest depiction of the struggles faced by those dealing with unresolved trauma and the process of moving forward with one’s life. It has been praised for its realistic and empathetic approach to difficult subjects, contributing to discussions about mental health and personal development.
Where to Watch “The King of Staten Island” Online in the United States
For those interested in watching “The King of Staten Island,” here are some streaming and purchase options available in the United States:
1. Hulu
- Availability: The film is available for streaming on Hulu.
- Subscription Required: Yes
2. Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: The film is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Rental Price: Approximately $4.99
- Purchase Price: Around $14.99
3. Apple iTunes
- Availability: “The King of Staten Island” can be rented or purchased on Apple iTunes.
- Rental Price: Around $4.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $14.99
4. Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: The film is available for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV.
- Rental Price: Roughly $4.99
- Purchase Price: Around $14.99
5. YouTube Movies
- Availability: “The King of Staten Island” is also available on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $4.99
- Purchase Price: Around $14.99
Conclusion
“The King of Staten Island” (2020) is a compelling and heartfelt film that offers a candid look at grief, personal growth, and family dynamics. With strong performances from Pete Davidson, Marisa Tomei, and Bill Burr, and direction by Judd Apatow, the film succeeds in blending humor with emotional depth. Its exploration of the challenges faced by young adults and the impact of unresolved trauma makes it a significant addition to contemporary cinema.
Whether you’re interested in a character-driven dramedy or a film that tackles important emotional themes, “The King of Staten Island” provides a moving and relatable experience. With various streaming options available, it’s accessible for those looking to engage with this poignant and humorous story.
