This film is adapted from Philip Roth’s book, and as is often the case with his work, the central character is a young Jewish man struggling with his identity, confronting the system and sex. Logan Lerman plays a working class boy from New Jersey who gets a scholarship to a small Ohio college. His clashes with roommates and the dean are offset by his infatuation with a beautiful young student. Some of the interaction is enjoyable and the performances are involving, but several scenes play on much longer than needed, dragging down the pace with seemingly endless debate. This young character is serious and troubled, not the typical college Freshman. It’s mildly compelling but is ultimately more intellectual than emotional.

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