Eighth Grade is Awkward But Heartfelt

Elsie Fisher as Kayla Day.

Teen movies usually range from sappy (The Space Between Us) to juvenile (American Pie). There might be one or two things that are genuine but the rest never hold's up. Then you have films like Eighth Grade that take you by surprise.

When not on her phone, Kayla Day (Elsie Fisher) likes to post self-help videos on Youtube despite having little to no views. Seen as the shy and quiet type among the school, she yearns to break out of her shell and be more social and outgoing. With eight grade graduation on the horizon, Kayla wonder's if high school will be any better or worse.

Kayla attempting to talk to her classmates

What is it that I see in this movie? An excellent take on that awkward and scary phase of preteen adolescence? A great directorial debut from Bo Burnham who started as a YouTuber and later a stand-up comedian? An outstanding performance from Elsie Fisher known for voicing Agnes the unicorn girl from Despicable Me? All of the above.

Trying to fit in

I saw bit of myself in Kayla; I too was that weird quiet kid no one talked to and preferred being on my own devices whether a computer or book. The middle school experience is very realistic that will resonate with teens today and adults recalling their own past experiences; the good, the bad and the uncomfortable aspects of those years.

Dad trying to be cool

Kayla is a relatable character encompassing that young anxiety, youthful rebellion and trying to fit in. She's not a bad person but being at that age we all made one or two dumb choices that we later regret. Whether it's finding out what boys get into, and isolating herself even from her dorky dad (Josh Hamilton) who is trying to be an encouraging parent.

Those good o'l days of walking in a single file line.
Though in my day we kept our hands to ourselves.

While Eighth Grade isn't the first film to tackle such teenage themes it feels more genuine than say the sensual obsession of Superbad and Mean Girls or the realistic but unsympathetic Welcome to the Dollhouse and Lady Bird. There are some fleeting moments of those elements found here but Burnham finds the right balance on handling said subjects and never dwelling on them too long or be presented for laughs.

Not since The Social Network or Tron: Legacy have a I heard such a synthetic soundtrack. The movie's electronic score is simply melodious, matching the music of today's youth from composer Anna Meredith. Bonus points for the best use of Enya's soothing song  "Orinoco Flow."

Bo Burnham and Elsie Fisher

Eight Grade is an excellent coming of age story and one of the best movies of the year. A reminder that it may not be the best year of your life but it ain't the end of the world. It's only the beginning.

Final Verdict: (A+)