The Wise Kids

Synopsis

The Wise Kids, directed by Stephen Cone, is a poignant drama that explores the complexities of friendship, faith, and the transition from youth to adulthood. Set within a close-knit community, the narrative centers around three high school friends—Sam, a thoughtful young man grappling with his sexual identity; Hezekiah, a preacher's son who faces the pressures of his father's expectations; and a girl named Beth, who is navigating her own emotional struggles. As they prepare to finish school and confront significant life decisions, their friendships are tested when differing beliefs and personal revelations come to the forefront. The film captures the uncertainty of maturity through heartfelt dialogue and subtle performances, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of growing up in a world where faith and personal truth must often collide. The Wise Kids delves into themes of self-discovery, the intricacies of faith, and the bonds that hold us together even when life pushes us apart, making it a tender exploration of adolescence in the modern age.

Cast

• 

  Molly Kunz

  Brea

• 

  Allison Torem

  Laura

• 

  Sadieh Rifai

  Elizabeth

• 

  Stephen Cone

  Austin

• 

  Tyler Ross

  Tim

• Frank Stennett

  Frank

Reviews

The Wise Kids has made a significant impression on critics and audiences alike, holding a commendable rating of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating universal acclaim. Metacritic gives it a score of 74, showcasing generally favorable reviews, while IMDb rates it at 6.4/10. Critics have praised the film’s fresh take on the coming-of-age genre, with The Hollywood Reporter stating that "Cone’s deft handling of raw emotions reveals the tender undercurrents of adolescence, offering profound insights while remaining relatable." The performances, particularly by Molly Kunz, have been highlighted for their authenticity, with Indiewire observing that "the actors bring a palpable honesty to their roles that elevates the narrative’s emotional stakes." However, some reviews noted that the film's pacing was slow, which might not attract all viewers. As The Film Stage remarked, it might not maintain the interest of those looking for a fast-paced story. Nevertheless, the film's exploration of faith and friendship resonates deeply, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in character-driven narratives.

See also

Joker

Titanic

Shutter Island

Back to the Future