Growing Op

The 2008 comedy-drama film, Growing Op, offers a unique take on the typical family drama genre by infusing it with intricacies of unconventional parenting and alternative lifestyle choices. Directed by Michael Melski, the film boasts a boast of notable actors which includes Steven Yaffee, Jon Cor, and Wallace Langham.

The story is primarily centered around the fascinatingly off-beat Travis family, who live in an idyllic suburban neighborhood. John (Wallace Langham), the family's patriarch, is not your stereotypical middle-class father. Together with his partner, Crystal (Rosanna Arquette), they've decided to lead a rather eccentric lifestyle that goes against usual societal norms, a lifestyle they believe to be perfectly suited for the raisng of their sons.

The eldest son, Quinn (Steven Yaffee), is eager to break free from the family's unique traditions as he approaches adulthood. He yearns for a life of normalcy which, in his perspective, would be filled with school, friends — and ideally, romance. But this is no ordinary coming-of-age story. Quinn isn't just grappling emotions and throes of first loves; he's coming to terms with the realities of his family's unconventional livelihood — the family business of growing and selling marijuana.

In contrast, his younger brother Danny (Jon Cor) relishes the family's eccentric lifestyle and is fully immersed in John and Crystal's counterculture values.

In many ways, the film explores how unconventional parenting styles can impact the children. Quinn's struggle to fit into the confines of normal teenage life, juxtaposed against his family's quirky lifestyle, is emphasized time and again throughout the film, placing the audience squarely in the tension of his dilemma -- Quinn desperately wants an ordinary life, something that is unattainable under his current circumstances.

The film oscillates smoothly between light-hearted comedy and deeper emotional introspection. Quinn's attempts to navigate the common milestones of adolescence — attending high school, making friends, and managing romantic relationships — are pitted against the backdrop of his family's highly atypical way of life which often causes some humorous and amusing escapades.

With his parents surrounded by their eccentric cast of friends and partners in the family business, a comedic subplot adds levity to the film. Simultaneously, his relationship with Crystal, a free-spirited temptress, provides a touch of romance and a slither of hope for normalcy in an otherwise chaotic life.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers experience the comforting familiarity of a coming-of-age story enhanced by the strain of grappling with unconventional family dynamics. Growing Op is a film that delves into the complexities of familial relationships, the challenges of teenage life, and the internal struggle for independence and identity.

The performances by the cast are notable for their sincere delivery. Steven Yaffee skillfully imbues Quinn with a captivating mix of humor and vulnerability which is sure to resonate with every teenager who has ever yearned for something more than what their parents have offered. Wallace Langham does excellent justice to John's character, embodying the charm and charisma of an unconventional father. Rosanna Arquette as Crystal, illuminates the screen with her feisty and unconventional motherhood, which contributes to the film's charm.

Under Melski's direction, Growing Op crafts a tender-hearted coming-of-age tale framed in a quirky, unconventional family setting. It's a journey of self-discovery and acceptance that will keep you captivated throughout. The blend of humor, drama, and the thought-provoking exploration of alternative lifestyles all contribute to making this film an unforgettable undertaking.

To summarize, Growing Op is a delightful gem that will both entertain and make you reflect on the paths that life might take, offering an appreciative nod to those families that fall outside the bounds of conventional norms while valuing the unique personality of every member. For those seeking a comedy-drama with a unique spin, this film is a highly recommended watch.