“Adam the First” is a poignant coming-of-age drama that follows 14-year-old Adam on an emotional trip across America.
After learning James (David Duchovny) isn’t his father, Adam seeks his true identity among several men named Jacob Watterson.
Director Irving Franco crafts a heartfelt quest of fatherhood, identity, and belonging that has earned a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Oakes Fegley delivers a standout performance as Adam, capturing the vulnerability of adolescence with remarkable authenticity.
Duchovny’s nuanced portrayal of James establishes the emotional foundation that resonates throughout the film.
With its limited theater run ending, now’s the perfect time to catch this thought-provoking indie gem.
The film is moving to streaming platforms soon.
Critics are calling it one of the most authentic American travel stories in recent cinema.
Why You Need to Watch “Adam the First” Right Now
A heartfelt voyage of self-discovery, this emotional coming-of-age drama has earned a remarkable 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes from early reviews.
The film offers a unique and powerful perspective on family, identity, and belonging, making it a must-watch.
With its limited theatrical release window quickly closing, the film is now transitioning to streaming platforms, so don’t miss the chance to experience this thought-provoking indie gem.
Social media buzz continues to grow, with discussions surrounding its unexpected emotional depth and investigation of father-son dynamics.
Join the conversation while it’s still fresh and discover what has audiences talking.
David Duchovny gives a performance that critics are calling one of his most authentic in years, bringing emotional nuance to a story about the bond between fathers and sons.
This film’s universal questioning of fatherhood resonates deeply, making it a memorable and meaningful watch for all.
Film Overview and Plot Summary
Adam is a 14-year-old living in the backwoods of Mississippi with his “father,” James (David Duchovny), and James’s girlfriend, Mary.
After James reveals he isn’t Adam’s biological father and their home is raided, Adam gets a list of names, all Jacob Watterson, who might be his real father.
| FILM ELEMENT | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Release Date | February 14, 2024 (Theaters), May 14, 2024 (Streaming) |
| Runtime | 2 Hours |
| Rating | Not Rated |
| Director | Irving Franco |
| Main Cast | Oakes Fegley (Adam), David Duchovny (James), T.R. Knight (Jacob Jr.), Larry Pine (Jacob #3) |
| Available On | Electric Entertainment (streaming) |
This initiates the boy’s cross-country expedition to seek out these individuals, each possessing a distinct life that could potentially mirror his own.
Along the way, Adam discovers different versions of masculinity and fatherhood, learning about himself and what family truly means.
Performance and Cast Analysis
Oakes Fegley shines in the lead role, bringing authentic emotion and vulnerability to Adam’s character.
His performance captures the inner turmoil and pain of a young boy searching for identity and belonging.
The complex emotions portrayed through his travels feel genuine and relatable.
David Duchovny is excellent in his supporting role as James, setting the emotional tone for the film.
Though his screen time is limited, his presence resonates throughout Adam’s trip.
The chemistry between Duchovny and Fegley establishes the emotional foundation of the story.
T.R. Knight and Larry Pine deliver nuanced performances as different versions of the potential father figure, Jacob Watterson.
Each actor brings a distinct perspective on fatherhood, creating a tapestry of male identity that challenges both Adam and the viewers.
Visual and Technical Elements
Irving Franco creates a visually compelling trip across America that mirrors Adam’s emotional landscape.
The film’s technical aspects may not boast blockbuster production values, but they effectively serve the intimate storytelling with artistic intention and authenticity.
Each location represents a different potential life for Adam, visually reinforcing the theme of choices and identity.
The technical elements work in harmony to create an immersive experience that feels both dreamlike and grounded in reality.
| ELEMENT | ANALYSIS |
|---|---|
| Cinematography | Beautiful American landscapes with intimate close-ups during emotional scenes. |
| Music | Irving Franco and Michael Grazi’s original score enhances emotions without overpowering the story. |
| Editing | Episodic chapters for each potential father create a thoughtful, measured pace. |
| Production Design | Authentic settings from backwoods Mississippi to diverse American landscapes showcase different lifestyles. |
| Direction | Irving Franco delivers a unique, introspective independent filmmaking approach. |
What distinguishes Adam the First from standard indie offerings is that these technical elements remain unobtrusive.
Instead, they create a seamless canvas for the performances to shine.
Franco’s direction shows confident restraint, enabling emotional scenes to resonate and landscapes to convey Adam’s inner feelings powerfully.
Themes and Storytelling
“Adam the First” delves into universal themes of growing up, fatherhood, and what it means to be a good man.
The film’s expedition structure explores identity from various perspectives, where each potential father represents a path that Adam could choose in life.
It raises the question of what truly defines a father: biology or emotional connection? Is family determined by blood or by those who care for us?
The storytelling has been likened to works by John Steinbeck, the Coen brothers, or a Robert Frost poem, offering an authentic American travel narrative.
Franco weaves biblical allusions throughout, such as the title’s reference to the first man and the prodigal son motif.
Adam begins a quest that challenges his understanding of fatherhood and self.
The film’s deep emotional resonance and complex themes offer a reflection on life, family, and the nature of masculinity.
What Critics Say
Adam the First earned impressive critical praise, scoring a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes from eight critics with an average score of 7/10.
That’s remarkable for an indie film.
Film Threat’s Allan Ng loved how the movie dives into “what it means to be a family from the perspective of an outsider desperately seeking the truth.”
Common Sense Media noted that while some parts might feel “shallow or underwritten,” the film stays strong thanks to its “undeniable earnestness and poignant lead performance.”
Critics consistently praise Oakes Fegley’s performance as the film’s biggest strength.
The episodic structure splits opinions; some find it fresh and engaging, while others think it feels uneven.
One reviewer highlighted how “Franco’s brilliantly conceived and beautifully acted conversation set pieces gradually increase the storytelling weight.”
While people debate the narrative approach, most agree that the acting and themes hit the mark.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
Adam the First delivers something rare today – an unhurried look at identity and belonging that stays with you long after the credits roll.
While not flawless, its emotional honesty and strong performances make it genuinely worthwhile.
Perfect for indie drama lovers, coming-of-age fans, and anyone interested in complex family stories.
David Duchovny delivers a brief but memorable performance that adds real weight.
The film offers meaningful storytelling that justifies your time investment.
Now streaming and easily accessible for cozy home viewing.
Overall Movie Rating: ★★★★☆
Loved it?
Check out “Captain Fantastic,” “The Way Way Back,” or “Boyhood” for similar thoughtful takes on growing up and finding your place in the world.
