Wet Behind The Ears

Wet Behind The Ears is a refreshing change from the norm of conventional cinema. The highly relatable 2013 comedy drama, directed by Sloan Copeland, breathes new life into the world of independent filmmaking. It presents an honest, amusing, and sometimes painful exploration of the transition from college life to the real world, something to which every young adult can relate.

The film features Margaret Keane Williams, Jessica Copeland, Doug Roland – a trio that excels at providing engaging, memorable performances. Their characters highlight the struggles of just-graduated college kids who enter the workforce for the first time and have to face the harsh realities of the world beyond their books and college dorms.

Margaret Keane Williams, with her exceptional talent, steps into the shoes of Samantha Phelps who finds herself in unfamiliar territory when college ends and the reality of her future becomes increasingly daunting. She undergoes a series of job rejections, having quite a bumpy ride on the job market before finally settling for work in an ice cream shop to make ends meet. Then, there is her friend, Vicky, portrayed flawlessly by Jessica Copeland. Vicky, too, has a hard time letting go of her carefree college days. She's stuck between different worlds, where her aspiration for a creative career comes crashing into the sobering reality of bills and responsibilities.

Doug Roland plays Oliver Cohen, the love interest of Samantha's who completes this common narrative of post-college disillusionment and confusion. Together, they exhibit a fantastic on-screen chemistry that strengthens the film's storyline, carrying it through volatile ups and downs.

As the characters attempt to navigate the real world and their newly minted adulthood, the distinct personalities of Samantha, Vicky, and Oliver naturally clash and intermingle, causing a myriad of chaotic, hilarious, and heartwarming incidents. As these young souls strive to keep their heads above water and avoid being called ‘wet behind the ears’ or inexperienced, their journey into uncharted territory offers moments of laughter, disappointment, struggle, and ultimately, growth.

Interestingly, director Sloan Copeland adds a dash of cultural insight into the mix by highlighting the role of social media in the lives of the younger generation. The film explores not only how these platforms are used for networking and job hunting but also delves deep into how they impact human relationships.

The film’s comedic styling is finely balanced by the layers of emotional depth it offers. The challenges and choices faced by Sam, Vicky, and Oliver are true to the confusion and struggles of young adults everywhere. Whether it's the frustration of negotiating an entry-level salary or the confusing dynamics of romantic and platonic relationships in adulthood, there’s much to appreciate and empathize with here.

In the form of Samantha, the film's protagonist, we get an in-depth look at a character filled with hope, frustration, naivety, and determination. We follow her journey closely - her highs, her lows, and everything in between, making for a compelling cinematic experience.

Shot largely around the city of New York, there is a delightful urban appeal to the ’look and feel’ of Wet Behind The Ears. The film smartly utilizes the cityscape to mirror the characters' emotions and situations—fast-paced, overwhelming, but ultimately exciting and full of potential.

As a unique narrative that weaves humor with hearty life lessons, Wet Behind The Ears is a film that resounds with youngsters, new graduates, and anyone who's ever gone through the trepidation of stepping into the real world from the safe cocoon of their college life. It truthfully depicts that confusing but essential journey of life, providing an important perspective - that it's okay to be ‘wet behind the ears’ because that's where the growth starts.

In essence, Wet Behind the Ears is a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery, a relatable tale of life's uncertainties, disappointments, and most importantly, its sweet victories. It's a charming, funny, and heartfelt film that speaks to the trials of the post-college years, offering an enjoyable watch that leaves one smiling and contemplative.