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The King of Staten Island poster

The King of Staten Island (2020)

Movie137minsRated MA15+

IMDb7.1/ 10CTV score7.1/ 10

Where to watch The King of Staten Island in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About The King of Staten Island

Scott has been a case of arrested development ever since his firefighter father died when he was seven. He's now reached his mid-20s having achieved little, chasing a dream of becoming a tattoo artist that seems far out of reach. As his ambitious younger sister heads off to college, Scott is still living with his exhausted ER nurse mother and spends his days smoking weed, hanging with the guys - Oscar, Igor and Richie - and secretly hooking up with his childhood friend Kelsey. But when his mother starts dating a loudmouth firefighter named Ray, it sets off a chain of events that will force Scott to grapple with his grief and take his first tentative steps toward moving forward in life.

Year
2020
Genres
Drama, Comedy
Runtime
137mins
Director
Judd Apatow

The King of Staten Island trailer

The King of Staten Island trailerPlay video: The King of Staten Island trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

The King of Staten Island, directed by Judd Apatow, is a poignant exploration of grief and self-discovery, anchored by a strong performance from Pete Davidson. The film presents a raw and honest portrayal of a young man stuck in limbo, unable to move past the loss of his father. Davidson's character, Scott, is relatable and profoundly human, embodying the struggles of many young adults faced with the weight of their past. The supporting cast, including Marisa Tomei and Bill Burr, adds depth to the narrative, each contributing to Scott's journey in their own unique way. Apatow's direction balances humour with heartfelt moments, allowing the audience to laugh while also reflecting on the deeper themes of loss and acceptance. While the film may meander at times, its emotional resonance and authentic storytelling make it a worthwhile watch.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

The King of Staten Island is a mixed bag that tries hard to balance comedy with drama, and while it often succeeds, there are moments that feel overly drawn out. Pete Davidson shines in his role, bringing a blend of charm and vulnerability to Scott, a young man grappling with his father’s death. The film’s humour is sharp and relatable, but the pacing can feel sluggish, especially in the second act. Judd Apatow's signature style is evident, with a focus on character development and emotional depth. However, at times, it feels like the film is trying to cover too much ground, leading to an uneven experience. It’s a film that has its heart in the right place but could benefit from tighter editing. Still, there are enough laughs and touching moments to make it an engaging watch.

How viewers describe this

  • heartfelt
  • relatable
  • humorous
  • poignant
  • raw
  • meandering
  • authentic
  • emotional
  • charming
  • engaging
  • mixed
  • reflective

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about The King of Staten Island?

Is The King of Staten Island worth watching?

Yes, The King of Staten Island is worth watching for its blend of comedy and poignant drama. Directed by Judd Apatow, the film offers a semi-autobiographical glimpse into the life of Scott, played by Pete Davidson. It tackles themes of grief, personal growth, and the struggles of young adulthood, all wrapped in a humorous yet heartfelt narrative.

What is The King of Staten Island really about?

The King of Staten Island follows the journey of Scott, a young man grappling with the loss of his firefighter father. Stuck in a rut, he spends his days aimlessly while his younger sister prepares for college. The film explores Scott's emotional struggles, particularly when his mother begins dating a firefighter, prompting him to confront his past and seek personal growth.

Is The King of Staten Island suitable for children?

The King of Staten Island is not particularly suitable for children due to its mature themes, strong language, and drug use. The film deals with complex issues such as grief and mental health, making it more appropriate for older teens and adults who can understand and appreciate its nuances.

Where can I watch The King of Staten Island in Australia?

In Australia, you can watch The King of Staten Island on streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video. Availability may vary, so it’s best to check your local listings or subscription services for the most accurate information.

What films are similar to The King of Staten Island?

If you enjoyed The King of Staten Island, you might also like films such as Trainwreck, Funny People, and This Is 40, all directed by Judd Apatow. These films similarly blend humour with deeper emotional themes, focusing on personal growth and relationships.

Is there a sequel to The King of Staten Island?

As of now, there is no sequel to The King of Staten Island. The film stands alone as a unique exploration of its themes and characters, and while the story could potentially continue, no official plans for a sequel have been announced.

What happens at the end of The King of Staten Island?

At the end of The King of Staten Island, Scott begins to take steps towards personal growth and acceptance of his father's death. He reconciles with his feelings, showing a willingness to move forward in life, which signifies a hopeful turning point for his character.

Is it based on a true story?

Yes, The King of Staten Island is loosely based on the life of Pete Davidson, who co-wrote the film. It reflects his own experiences with loss and personal struggles, making the narrative resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.