“Admission” tells the story of Portia Nathan (Tina Fey), a Princeton admissions officer with a rigorous professional life. Her career drives her and is in line for a significant promotion. Her structured life takes a turn when she is invited to a child’s birthday party by John Pressman (Paul Rudd), an idealistic teacher at an alternative high school.
Intrigued and somewhat pressured, Portia brings her free-spirited mother, Susannah (Lily Tomlin), to the party. The film weaves humor and heartfelt moments as Portia discovers that a student at John’s school, Jeremiah (Nat Wolff), might be the son she gave up for adoption years ago.
“Admission” combines comedy, drama, and a touch of romance in a narrative that explores the complexities of professional ambition, personal sacrifice, and the quest for identity. Paul Weitz directs the film and benefits from its stellar cast and sharp writing, though it occasionally struggles with tonal balance.
Tina Fey shines as Portia Nathan, bringing her signature blend of wit and vulnerability to the role. She effectively portrays a woman whose tightly controlled life is suddenly thrown into disarray. Fey’s comedic timing is impeccable, and she conveys Portia’s internal conflict with depth and sensitivity.
Paul Rudd, as John Pressman, delivers a charming and earnest performance. His character’s idealism and unconventional approach to education provide a perfect foil to Portia’s by-the-book attitude. The chemistry between Fey and Rudd is natural and engaging, making their interactions a highlight of the film.
Lily Tomlin steals scenes as Susannah, Portia’s eccentric and outspoken mother. Tomlin’s performance adds a layer of humor and warmth, and her character’s free-spirited nature contrasts sharply with Portia’s rigidity, offering moments of genuine hilarity and insight.
Nat Wolff, as Jeremiah, is convincing and relatable. He portrays a teenager navigating his path with a blend of awkwardness and determination. His scenes with Fey are particularly touching, capturing the delicate balance of hope and uncertainty.
Paul Weitz’s direction keeps the story moving steadily, effectively blending humor and drama, though the shifts in tone can sometimes feel abrupt. Karen Croner’s screenplay, based on Jean Hanff Korelitz’s novel, is filled with witty dialogue and poignant moments. It explores themes of identity, motherhood, and the pressures of academic success without becoming overly sentimental.
The cinematography by Declan Quinn captures the contrasting environments of Princeton’s elite academic world and the more laid-back, rural setting of John’s school. The visual style complements the film’s themes, highlighting the differences between Portia’s structured life and the unpredictability she encounters.
Stephen Trask’s score is understated yet effective. It enhances the emotional beats of the story without overshadowing the performances.
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