The Way Way Back is a 2013 coming-of-age film directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash. The story follows 14-year-old Duncan, played by Liam James, as he spends his summer vacation with his mother (Toni Collette) and her new boyfriend (Steve Carell) at a beach house in Cape Cod.
Feeling left out and unwanted by the adults around him, Duncan is initially miserable. However, his spirits start to lift when he meets Owen, the eccentric manager of a local water park played by Sam Rockwell. Owen takes Duncan under his wing and offers him a job at the park, where he begins to learn valuable life lessons and gain self-confidence.
As the summer progresses, Duncan's relationship with his mom and her boyfriend becomes strained, and he finds solace in the water park and the friends he's made there. With Owen's guidance, Duncan learns to stand up for himself and embrace his individuality.
The Way Way Back features an all-star cast, including Allison Janney, Maya Rudolph, and AnnaSophia Robb, and was praised for its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances. It was a box office success and received numerous award nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.