Adventureland (film)

Adventureland is a 2009 American comedy-drama film written and directed by Greg Mottola, starring Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Ryan Reynolds, Kristen Wiig, and Bill Hader. Set in the summer of 1987, the film follows James Brennan (Eisenberg), a recent college graduate forced to take a summer job at a low-rent amusement park called Adventureland to earn money for graduate school after his family experiences financial difficulties.

The film explores themes of first love, disillusionment, and the transition into adulthood. James forms a close relationship with his co-worker, Em Lewin (Stewart), navigating the awkwardness and complexities of young romance amidst the backdrop of the rundown amusement park. The film also features the quirky and eccentric characters who work at Adventureland, including Bobby (Reynolds), the park's maintenance man and local musician, and Paulette and Bobby (Wiig and Hader), the park's married owners.

Adventureland is a semi-autobiographical work, drawing heavily from Mottola's own experiences working at an amusement park during his youth. It received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its relatable characters, nostalgic atmosphere, and blend of humor and pathos. The film is noted for its soundtrack featuring a selection of popular songs from the 1980s.