Staying home can hurt, so Stevie goes out a lot. He gets lucky when he finds a group of older, cooler skateboarders to pass the hours with. It’s all in good fun.
Over time, though, it becomes clear that each of the kids is dealing with their own issues. Skating only helps them forget for so long. When simmering emotions boil over, the kids make questionable decisions.
And yet throughout it all, Mid90s remains a sweet movie with a soft touch. It captures well that paradox of growing up: of seeking independence when one is powerless in many ways.