One has to be a "Hardcore Romantic" to REALLY LOVE this film. I liked it. A lot. Quite a bit. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley -- their chemistry works well together in this film! I prefer Shailene Woodley's improved acting chops in 2018's "ADRIFT" or even from 2014's "The Fault In Our Stars." And of course, the entire "DIVERGENT/ Insurgent" series. So she has really grown as a actress from this particular 2013 production. Still, again, I liked it. So I've seen it twice already and will cursorily watch it at least a third and a fourth time -- (when I'm in the mood of the NOW) -- because both their performances are somewhat intriguing and captivating! Miles Teller also has some other great films, uncoupled from Shailene Woodley. I've seen about 5 other films starring Miles Teller -- like the excellent "Whiplash" or "Only the Brave" or "Bleed For This, "(in addition to the entire "DIVERGENT/Insurgent" Series.) They are both good for this story. I liked the running undercurrent theme of the story: the NOW. It's great to watch young actors grow, develop, and hone their craft!! BOTH of these actors here are no exception and well-worth seeing. I know I am glad to have this film in my memory banks!

This coming of age film really is great with 2 young talented actors!

This movie made my hear swell with emotion. The teen love genre is littered with junk and this film takes all the cliches and annoyances of them and replaces them with humans. Flawed, interesting, humans who are unsure of the future and scared by the past. This story is so involving and well handled that I could have started the film over again once it was done just so I could take the journey again. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodly are perfection in this. There is a whole crop of young, talented actors coming up in Hollywood right now that makes me feel secure that the future is promising and these two are in that group. Another performance worth noting is Kyle Chandler who is one of those actors who keeps popping up and has slowly made me a believer and a big fan of his. This is one of the best stories we will get all year. It is touching, heartfelt and real. You will come out having felt most emotions you are capable of and your cup will be overflowing.

The Spectacular Now is easily in my Top Ten list for 2013. This beautiful, little film about two teenagers finding each other is the ultimate coming of age story. Director James Ponsoldt has taken Tim Tharp's fantastic novel and slowly immerses the characters into falling in love while the audience watches. I cannot say enough about Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley's strong chemistry together which results in strong performances. Nothing seems like dialog, just words flowing from their mouths in such a natural way. What makes this film so perfect is the casting. Actors & supporting actors look and talk like high school seniors. Neither are traditional Hollywood "faces" you usually find in movies like this. Overall, this film is a perfect slice of a spring romance, flawless in almost every way. My only drawback (& it’s not even the film it self’s fault) is the lack of extras, which are pretty bare bones. Buy this movie!!!

Haven't seen one like this before. Miles Teller is a breakout young star as a high school kid with everything going for him - and a drinking problem. Attracted to a fellow classmate - who doesn't fit his usual bill - beautifully played by Shaileen Woodley (from "The Descendants") - who likes him for who he is - and also - unfortunately - for who she didn't know he was - it goes places I didn't expect or see coming. You become invested in these characters and the ride is bumpy - but exhilarating. I suggest you buy a ticket and come along. Very well done.