The Wackness

Dr. Jeffrey Squires, a talented psychoanalyst played by Ben Kingsley, begins his therapeutic practice. His interactions with his patients, particularly a high-school marijuana dealer named Luke Shapiro, set the stage for unexpected revelations.

Luke Shapiro, portrayed by Josh Peck, faces typical adolescent challenges while balancing his responsibilities as a marijuana dealer. His family's financial troubles threaten their lavish lifestyle in East Side New York, adding pressure to his teenage life.

Dr. Squires encourages Luke to embrace his youth and explore love. This advice propels Luke further into the depths of his teenage escapades, even as he navigates his own complicated relationship with his wife.

In an effort to financially support his education, Luke deepens his involvement in the drug trade. He caters to wealthy party-goers, which becomes a significant part of his adolescent identity while he grapples with the pressures around him.

A pivotal moment occurs when Luke meets Stephanie, Dr. Squires' stepdaughter, played by Olivia Thirlby. Their instant connection sparks feelings of potential romance amidst Luke's chaotic life.

Determined to win over Stephanie, Luke turns to Dr. Squires for advice on relationships, unaware of their familial connection. This irony adds a layer of complexity to the interactions between the characters.

As Luke's relationship with Stephanie blossoms, he inadvertently helps Dr. Squires reconnect with the vibrancy of his own youth. Their journey together brings new life to the aging psychoanalyst's otherwise mundane existence.

A wild all-night party spirals out of control, landing both Luke and Stephanie in police custody for disorderly conduct. This reckless adventure highlights the recklessness of their young lives and the consequences that follow.

After returning home from the party, Luke faces the harsh reality that his family is being evicted from their luxury apartment. This pivotal event forces them to relocate to New Jersey, further complicating Luke's situation.

Despite the upheaval in their lives, Luke and Stephanie seize the opportunity to deepen their relationship. Their bond grows stronger even as external pressures threaten to tear them apart.

As Luke navigates his love life, Dr. Squires struggles to reconnect with his younger wife, Kristin. Tensions mount in their marriage, mirroring the chaos unfolding in Luke's life.

In a poignant twist, Luke becomes a source of comfort for Dr. Squires during challenging times in his marriage. Their roles shift as Luke offers wisdom through his youthful perspective, emphasizing life's unpredictable nature.

Set against the vibrant summer of 1994, the backdrop reflects a city grappling with the new policies under Mayor Rudy Giuliani. The crackdown on public behavior mirrors the personal struggles of the characters.

As the summer progresses, both Luke and Dr. Squires learn valuable lessons about youth, love, and the complexities of adult life. The film concludes with a bittersweet recognition of the challenges inherent in growth and change.