The King of Staten Island (2020) is a semi-autobiographical comedy-drama directed by Judd Apatow and starring Pete Davidson, who also co-wrote the film. The story is loosely based on Davidson’s own life experiences, particularly growing up in Staten Island and dealing with personal loss.
The film centers around Scott Carlin (played by Pete Davidson), a 24-year-old man who is stuck in a rut, living with his mother (played by Marisa Tomei) in Staten Island. Scott dreams of becoming a tattoo artist, but he’s not making much progress in his career or his life in general. His emotional growth is stunted, in large part due to the trauma of losing his father, who was a firefighter and died during the 9/11 attacks. As Scott navigates his way through an aimless existence, he’s forced to confront his grief, relationships, and his future when his mother starts dating a new man, Ray (Bill Burr), who is a firefighter like his late father.
The King of Staten Island is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that blends humor with deeper themes of loss, healing, and self-discovery. It explores Scott’s struggle with responsibility, maturity, and his desire for something more than what his life currently offers. The film feels like a personal journey, with Pete Davidson giving a raw, authentic performance as a young man who has yet to find his purpose but is slowly learning to confront his demons and take control of his future.
Apatow’s direction balances humor with emotional depth, making the film feel genuine and grounded. The interactions between the characters, especially between Scott and his mother, are touching and often laced with humor, while the conflict with Ray introduces moments of tension and growth. Bill Burr also delivers a standout performance as Ray, offering a perfect foil to Scott’s immature tendencies while providing both conflict and wisdom.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, taking its time to let Scott’s story unfold and exploring his relationships with those around him—his family, friends, and love interests. It’s less about the jokes and more about Scott’s internal journey, which makes it feel more like a character study than a traditional comedy.
The King of Staten Island received positive reviews for its nuanced portrayal of grief, growth, and personal transformation. Pete Davidson’s performance was widely praised, as was the film’s ability to blend humor with emotional moments in a way that feels natural and impactful.
If you enjoy films that focus on personal development, dealing with trauma, and exploring complex relationships, The King of Staten Island is a unique and heartfelt take on a coming-of-age story, with humor and heart.
