Elsie Fisher delivers an impressive portrayal as Kayla, a teenager navigating the anxieties inherent in growing up. She's dealing with personal struggles while attending a school she’s essentially outgrowing, and seems to depend on social media for reassurance. Although her mother isn't present, her father (played by Josh Hamilton) is deeply invested in helping his daughter, often appearing at her bedroom door late at night as she browses the internet – though it’s unclear if he truly understands how to support her. Romantic interests are also part of the equation; Kayla's feelings for Aiden (Luke Prael) aren't returned, and Gabe’s (Jake Ryan) affection towards her is unrequited. It might be beneficial for her to recognize that many of her peers share similar insecurities, even if they express them differently. The film can be difficult to watch at times, offering a stark and honest depiction of how today's youth confront the challenges of adulthood under constant scrutiny from online platforms—a world vastly different from my own experience, when color television was still relatively new. The writing feels genuine, provoking feelings of awkwardness and discomfort in the viewer – which speaks volumes about the performances of Ryan and Hamilton, as well as Fisher’s commitment to the role. Dark humor helps ease the tension throughout Kayla's journey of self-discovery, shedding light on both the difficulties of contemporary parenting and adolescence. It left me feeling grateful that I didn't have to contend with a constant need for validation and approval in my youth. The film is definitely worth seeing.
On September 24, 2026
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