Davidson’s movie shows reality, authenticity

Alright, alright, I’ll admit it: after watching “The King of Staten Island,” I, too, have developed a slightly unorthodox crush on Pete Davidson.

In the film, the longtime SNL actor plays a semi-autobiographical version of himself named Scott, who is likewise lanky and tatted. One of its core aspects is Scott’s late father, who, like Davidson’s father in real life, died in his position as a firefighter. Scott’s struggle throughout the movie is to accept the things he cannot change and figure his life out despite his early obstacles.

Davidson’s role in the media is often one of comedy. He strikes audiences with his careless demeanor and self-deprecating humor and exudes a willingness to make a joke out of anything. But in “The King of Staten Island,” we see the darker parts of Davidson.

Yes, it is about a lost 24-year-old’s life, but it is also about the inner battle between a man and his depression.

The soundtrack in this movie is amazing. Because film is an audio medium as well as a visual one, a soundtrack needs to fit the characters and the story narrative.

For this, “The King of Staten Island” is remarkably on point, mixing together old-time crooners, upbeat rap and several Kid Cudi songs. Cudi’s “Just What I Am” and “Pursuit of Happiness” are especially representative of Scott’s character.

Pete Davidson cites Cudi as a music artist that “saved his life,” and I think this really comes through in the film. The opening scene shows Scott driving his car while listening to “Just What I Am,” while squeezing his eyes shut. As the lyrics sing “I’m just what you made, God; I’m just what you made,” they serve as an inner monologue for Scott.

Other song standouts include the nostalgic “Down on the Corner” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, the vulnerable “Your Hand in Mine” by Explosions in the Sky and the heartfelt “Finally a Kiss” by Craig Richey.

Viewers truly feel like they are living Scott’s life with him.

Davidson’s acting is authentic in this film; I’m convinced he was only playing himself. Also notable is Bel Powley, who plays Kelsey, Scott’s friend and love interest. Her passion and genuinity captured me. Much like Davidson, I ended the movie with a burning urge to give out a forehead kiss.

I watched this movie because I didn’t have anything else to watch, and to be honest, my expectations weren’t very high. It’s two-and-a-half hours long, I was confused at its semi-autobiographical nature and it didn’t seem to have an especially definitive plot. But “The King of Staten Island” was a lovely surprise. As the credits rolled, I realized it’d been something I could identify with.

Relatability is what makes “The King of Staten Island” so special. Most people watch a movie to distract themselves or take part in a narrative that’s nothing like their own, but Pete Davidson’s movie is real and mundane. It could happen to anyone, which is why I found it so appealing.

Its representation of mental health disorders is fantastic. Its representation of friendship is heartwarming. Its representation of dealing with a lost loved one is hard-hitting.

Not to mention, I now have an attraction to a gangly 6’3” stoner who’s currently Kanye West’s archnemesis.

This movie gets a 8/10 stars from me.