The Wackness (2008)

In the sweltering summer of 1994, New York City serves as a bustling backdrop for the coming-of-age tale of Luke Shapiro. Recently graduated from high school and grappling with a life shadowed by familial dysfunction and financial woes, Luke finds relief in his unlikely occupation as a marijuana dealer and the even more unlikely companionship of his most unique customer, Dr. Jeffrey Squires, an aging hippie psychologist. In a barter system that defies convention, Luke trades weed for therapy sessions, a desperate attempt to find someone, anyone, who would lend an ear to his tangled thoughts. In the midst of this complex dynamic, enters Stephanie, a classmate who embodies Luke's most fervent fantasies. She is the unreachable star, the girl out of his league, and ironically, Dr. Squire’s step-daughter. Unaware of Luke's amorous interest in her, Stephanie proposes a casual summer friendship, a pact that sets them off on a myriad of adventures, all while dealing marijuana from an ice-cream pushcart. Simultaneously, an unusual camaraderie blossoms between Luke and Dr. Squires, blurring the lines between therapist and patient. Their friendship navigates the uncertain waters of confessions and advice, especially when Luke seeks guidance on transforming his dreams of dating Stephanie into reality, all while keeping his therapist in the dark about the identity of his love interest. As the summer unfolds, the narrative takes unexpected turns. Dr. Squires reveals his own dissatisfaction with his marriage to Stephanie's mother, and both Luke’s and Squires' family troubles simmer in the background, adding further layers to their already intricate lives. The central question looms: If Luke is successful in winning Stephanie's heart, what will the end of summer bring when their old friends return, and they all step into the daunting realm of life beyond high school? This is a compelling exploration of friendship, love, and the challenging transition to adulthood, set against the vibrant canvas of 90s New York City.

The Wackness is a drama movie featuring Ben Kingsley and directed by Jonathan Levine.

It is possible to buy The Wackness on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.