Adventureland

Adventureland

Year: 2009

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Greg Mottola

DramaComedyRomance

Facing disappointment with his post-college plans, James Brennan takes a summer job at Adventureland, a run-down amusement park. Working alongside quirky colleagues and dealing with demanding customers, he navigates the challenges of adulthood. He unexpectedly finds a connection with Em, a charismatic coworker, and together they explore newfound freedom and romance amidst the chaotic and nostalgic atmosphere of the park.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Adventureland (2009)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Adventureland (2009). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Summer of 1987

The summer of 1987 was marked by a vibrant youth culture, characterized by exploration and newfound freedoms. This era saw the rise of various musical movements and a sense of optimism among young people, highlighting the challenges and joys of coming of age during a transformative period in American history.

Location

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, known for its rich industrial history and scenic river landscapes, serves as the backdrop for James' summer adventure. The city offers a blend of urban charm and playful leisure activities, epitomized by Adventureland, a local amusement park fostering youthful memories and new experiences among its visitors.

🎢 Amusement Park 🌊 Rivers

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Main Characters – Adventureland (2009)

Meet the key characters of Adventureland (2009), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

James Brennan (Jesse Eisenberg)

James is a recent college graduate facing unexpected obstacles as he confronts the realities of adulthood. Introspective and somewhat naïve, he navigates the intricacies of love and friendship while balancing his aspirations with newfound responsibilities. His quest for connection reveals his emotional depth and desire to understand life beyond the classroom.

👨‍🎓 Graduate 💞 Romantic 🌟 Sensitive

Emily 'Em' Lewin (Kristen Stewart)

Em is a spirited and complex character, emotionally entangled in a struggle between her desires and moral dilemmas. Her initial bravery in saving James reveals a strong-willed nature, but her involvement with Connell complicates her romantic life. Em embodies the uncertainty of young love and the yearning for personal freedom amidst societal expectations.

❤️ Captivating 🎭 Complex 😔 Vulnerable

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Major Themes – Adventureland (2009)

Explore the central themes of Adventureland (2009), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Heartbreak

The theme of heartbreak is central to James and Em's relationship, influencing their choices and emotional growth. Their connection is tested by external circumstances, including Em's affair and the pressure of young adulthood, leading to profound moments of vulnerability and realization. This theme captures the complexities of love, desire, and the harsh truths of growing up.

🛤️ Coming of Age

Adventureland encapsulates the coming-of-age theme through James' journey from student to young adult. As he navigates relationships, jobs, and personal aspirations, he experiences both the excitement and uncertainty of transitioning into adulthood. The film beautifully illustrates the struggles of self-discovery and the nuances of young love.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Unlock the Full Story of Adventureland

Don't stop at just watching — explore Adventureland in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Adventureland is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Adventureland Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Adventureland, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Adventureland Summary

Adventureland Timeline

Track the full timeline of Adventureland with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Adventureland Timeline

More About Adventureland

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Adventureland: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Adventureland

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