Watch Rockaway

Rockaway from 2017 is a thought-provoking film about the fragility of youth and the power of brotherhood. Directed by John J. Budion and starring Keidrich Sellati, Maxwell Apple, and James DiGiacomo, Rockaway is a coming-of-age story about two brothers growing up in New York City during the 90s. The movie begins with John and Anthony, two teenage brothers who share a tight bond despite their differences. John is an artist, a sensitive soul who is constantly drawing and painting while Anthony is a slacker, a troublemaker who gets into fights and often skips school.

Their world is turned upside down when their father suddenly dies and their mother spirals into depression and addiction. Left to fend for themselves, the brothers must navigate the gritty world of New York City and find a way to survive on their own.

Despite the challenges they face, John and Anthony find comfort in each other's company and in the simple pleasures of life. They spend their days hanging out with friends, exploring the city, and dreaming of a better future.

As the story progresses, we see the brothers confront their demons and come to terms with their past. John confronts his fear of failure and realizes that his art can be a way to escape the pain of his family's situation. Anthony, on the other hand, begins to question his path in life and whether he should continue down the road of violence and destruction.

What makes Rockaway so compelling is its authenticity. The film is rooted in the realities of life in New York City in the 90s, from the dingy apartments to the gritty street corners. There is a sense of urgency and immediacy to the story that draws you in and makes you care about the characters.

The performances are also excellent, particularly Sellati and Apple who are both natural and believable in their roles as brothers. They have an easy chemistry that makes their bond feel real and tangible. DiGiacomo also shines as a charismatic friend who provides a ray of light in an otherwise dark world.

One of the strengths of the film is its exploration of the theme of brotherhood. John and Anthony's relationship is at the heart of the story, and it is a testament to the power of family and the bonds that can tie us together even in the darkest of times.

Another notable aspect of the film is its depiction of addiction and its impact on families. The mother's struggles with substance abuse are portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, and it adds an emotional depth to the story that is both heartbreaking and poignant.

Overall, Rockaway is a poignant and powerful film that captures the spirit of youth and the struggles that come with growing up in a harsh world. It is a moving tribute to the power of brotherhood and the resilience of the human spirit. Highly recommended for fans of coming-of-age stories and films with a strong sense of place and atmosphere.

Rockaway is a 2019 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.