Mid90s

In 1996, Stevie, a 13-year-old boy, struggles with the challenges of a troubled home environment in Palms, Los Angeles. He deals with the physical abuse from his older brother, Ian, and the pressures of living with a single mother, Dabney.

One day, Stevie is drawn to the vibrancy of the Motor Avenue Skateshop. Fascinated by the lively interactions and camaraderie of the skaters outside, he decides to return the following day to explore this new world further.

After trading with Ian, Stevie acquires his first skateboard, marking his entry into skate culture. With excitement, he returns to the skateshop where he forms friendships with local skaters, including Ruben and the charismatic Ray.

During a conversation at the skate shop, Ray affectionately nicknames Stevie 'Sunburn', which signifies his acceptance into the skateboarding group. This new camaraderie comes with its own set of challenges, especially dealing with the jealousy of Ruben.

Stevie attempts an ambitious trick between two rooftops, but the stunt goes wrong, leading to a serious head injury. His mother, Dabney, expresses her concern about his reckless behavior and his new circle of friends.

As Stevie immerses himself in this new lifestyle, he begins to smoke, drink, and experiment with marijuana. This troubling behavior signals a stark shift in his character as he seeks validation from his peers.

At a party, Stevie experiences his first kiss and a sexual encounter with Estee, an older girl, highlighting his desire to fit in and mature. This event marks a pivotal moment in his adolescence and adds complexity to his relationships.

After a drunken confrontation, Stevie and Ian engage in a violent altercation that leaves Stevie feeling more isolated than ever. As emotional turmoil escalates, Stevie resorts to self-harm, showcasing his deep struggle for acceptance and relief from pain.

The following day, Dabney forbids Stevie from hanging out with his friends, but he defiantly rejects her orders. This moment illustrates Stevie's growing rebellion and desire to forge his own path, despite the fallout with his family.

Stevie finds solace at the skate shop, where he connects with Ray, who shares his own hardships. During a nighttime skate adventure, they find comfort in each other's company, strengthening their friendship under the stars at the Santa Monica Courthouse.

A party at the shop reveals Ray's ambition to turn skating into a career as he seeks sponsorship. However, chaos ensues when Fuckshit attempts to undermine Ray's credibility, causing tensions to rise within the group.

Following a night of heavy drinking, tensions mount between Stevie and Ruben, leading to a physical confrontation. This breakdown highlights the fragility of their friendship, set against the reckless backdrop of their lifestyle.

In a reckless moment, Fuckshit crashes a car during a chaotic drive, resulting in Stevie being knocked unconscious. This horrifying event serves as a wake-up call for the group about the consequences of their behavior.

When Stevie regains consciousness in the hospital, he finds Ian by his side, offering him orange juice as a sign of support. Dabney's arrival with Stevie's friends further signifies a potential for healing and reconciliation.

As a crowning moment of their adventures, Fourth Grade pulls out a camera to present the documentary-style film titled 'Mid90s'. This film encapsulates the essence of their youthful escapades and the bonds they formed during that tumultuous time.