Kicking and Screaming (1995 film)

Kicking and Screaming is a 1995 comedy-drama film written and directed by Noah Baumbach, in his directorial debut. The film follows a group of recent college graduates who struggle to leave behind their familiar college town and fully embrace adulthood.

The narrative centers around Grover (Josh Hamilton), who is reeling from a breakup with his girlfriend Jane (Olivia d'Abo), who has left to study abroad in Prague. He and his group of friends, including Max (Chris Eigeman), Otis (Carlos Jacott), and Skippy (Jason Wiles), spend the summer and subsequent fall procrastinating, avoiding moving forward, and generally engaging in intellectual debates and immature antics in their college town. The film explores themes of post-college inertia, fear of commitment, the complexities of relationships, and the challenges of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood.

The film's tone is characterized by its witty dialogue, quirky characters, and observational humor. It captures a specific moment in the lives of these characters, highlighting their anxieties and insecurities about the future. While the characters are often cynical and self-absorbed, the film ultimately portrays their struggles with empathy and understanding.

Kicking and Screaming is considered a quintessential indie film of the 1990s and helped launch Baumbach's career. It is known for its sharp writing, strong performances, and relatable portrayal of post-collegiate malaise. The film received generally positive reviews and has since garnered a cult following.