The Way Way Back (2013)
A shy teenager finds an unexpected friendship and belonging during a summer of witty, wholesome discoveries.
Shy 14-year-old Duncan goes on summer vacation with his mother, her overbearing boyfriend, and her boyfriend's daughter. Having a rough time fitting in, Duncan finds an unexpected friend in Owen, manager of the Water Wizz water park.
How intense is The Way Way Back?
The Way Way Back has no gore and no real violence. Emotionally it is heavy. The pace is measured, and it is a comfort watch and a full-attention watch. The humor runs dry and wholesome. Rated PG-13.
What The Way Way Back feels like
- Tone
- feel goodheartwarmingintimate
- Pace
- Measured
- Humor
- dry and witty, wholesome
- Best for
- Comfort watchFull attention
Where to stream The Way Way Back
Not on a US subscription service at our last check. Rent or buy may still be an option.
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 15, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is The Way Way Back for you?
Is The Way Way Back scary?
No. The Way Way Back is not a scary watch (scare level 0 of 3).
Is The Way Way Back gory or violent?
No gore (0 of 3) and no real violence (0 of 3). Squeamish viewers are fine here.
Is The Way Way Back sad or heavy?
It is emotionally heavy (2 of 3). Expect it to land.
Is The Way Way Back OK for kids?
It is rated PG-13. Intensity: scare 0, gore 0, violence 0, each out of 3. Your call for older kids.
How long is The Way Way Back?
The Way Way Back runs 1h 43m.
Where can I stream The Way Way Back?
The Way Way Back is not on a US subscription service right now (rent or buy may still be an option).
Does The Way Way Back have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
Bittersweet. It earns its ending, but not everyone gets what they want.
Cast and crew
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