‘Stay Awake’ Review – A Poignant Drama Filled With Raw Emotion

In Jamie Sisley’s poignant drama, Stay Awake, the audience is taken on a heartfelt and emotionally charged journey through the lives of two teenage brothers grappling with the weight of their mother’s prescription drug addiction. Anchored by exceptional lead performances from Wyatt Oleff and Fin Argus, and supported by the nuanced portrayal of Chrissy Metz, the film presents a raw and authentic exploration of addiction, while delivering both tender and devastating moments that resonate long after the credits roll.

Stay Awake unfolds with a sense of intimacy that draws viewers into the lives of its characters. Wyatt Oleff, known for his role in It and its sequel, delivers a remarkable performance as Ethan. Oleff’s portrayal is nuanced and layered, showcasing the complexity of his character’s emotions as he navigates the challenges of adolescence alongside the burden of his mother’s addiction. His chemistry with Fin Argus, who gained recognition for his work in the movie Clouds, is truly phenomenal. Argus embodies the role of Derek, Ethan’s brother, with a vulnerability that is captivating. The on-screen connection between Oleff and Argus is palpable, their brotherly bond wholly believable, and their performances elevate the film to new heights.

Chrissy Metz, best known for her role in This Is Us, delivers an understated yet powerful performance as the boys’ mother, Michelle. Metz brings depth and authenticity to her character, capturing the struggles of addiction with a poignant and sensitive approach. Her performance strikes a delicate balance between moments of vulnerability and strength, shedding light on the complexities of addiction and the impact it has on the entire family.

Stay Awake is a rollercoaster of emotions, expertly balancing tender and uplifting moments with emotionally devastating scenes. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, offering a candid portrayal of the toll it takes on individuals and their loved ones. Sisley’s direction skillfully captures the characters’ inner turmoil, allowing the audience to empathize with their struggles and form a deep emotional connection with the narrative.

One of the film’s strengths lies in its exploration of the themes of addiction and drug use. Sisley approaches these sensitive topics with care and sensitivity, presenting an honest depiction of how addiction can infiltrate and impact the lives of those affected. The teenage boys’ journey through their mother’s addiction serves as a poignant coming-of-age tale, highlighting the resilience and strength that can emerge from the most challenging circumstances. The film encourages dialogue and understanding surrounding addiction, shedding light on its complexities and offering hope amidst the darkness.

However, despite its many merits, the narrative does have a few flaws. The film’s duration feels somewhat short, leaving certain plot points and character arcs underdeveloped. Given the depth of the subject matter, a more expansive exploration of the characters’ emotional journeys would have further enriched the narrative. Additionally, the pacing of the film is at times too fast, making it difficult to fully absorb and process the weighty themes and moments presented.

But all in all, Stay Awake is a powerful and thought-provoking film that tackles addiction, adolescence, and familial bonds with exceptional performances and a heartfelt narrative. Wyatt Oleff and Fin Argus deliver standout performances, showcasing their talent and chemistry on screen. Chrissy Metz’s nuanced portrayal adds another layer of emotional depth to the story. Jamie Sisley’s direction captures the essence of addiction and its impact on the lives of those involved, combining tender moments with devastating scenes that resonate long after the film ends. While the film could have benefited from a longer runtime to fully explore its themes and deepen character arcs, Stay Awake remains a compelling and moving exploration of addiction, bolstered by its exceptional performances and emotional resonance.

Stay Awake is currently playing in select theaters courtesy of Marvista Entertainment. The film will expand to additional markets in the coming weeks. 

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