90’s Mid: Mid90s — Jonah Hill’s Directorial Debut

Jonah Hill’s directorial debut, Mid90s, hit theaters in 2018 and immediately resonated with audiences and critics alike . The film, which Hill wrote and directed, is a raw, sun-bleached coming-of-age story set in 1990s Los Angeles that follows 13-year-old Stevie as he escapes his troubled home life by finding solace with a group of older skateboarders. Since its release, viewers have been searching for where to watch Mid90s, asking questions like “is Mid90s on Netflix?” and “where can I watch Mid90s movie?” This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from streaming availability to why this film matters.

Mid90s isn’t just another nostalgia piece; it’s a film that treats skate culture with respect and authenticity . Hill, who grew up skateboarding in Los Angeles during the 1990s, wanted to create something that genuinely captured the era’s ethic and aesthetic . With a budget of just $1.7 million, *Mid90s* went on to gross $9.3 million at the box office and earned an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

In this guide, we’ll explore where to watch Mid90s, including current streaming options, the film’s key themes and features, expert insights, and why it remains an essential watch for coming-of-age film fans.

What Is Mid90s?

Mid90s (stylized as mid90s) is a 2018 American coming-of-age drama film written and directed by Jonah Hill in his feature directorial debut . The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2018, before its theatrical release on October 19, 2018, by A24.

The Plot

The story centers on Stevie (played by Sunny Suljic), a 13-year-old boy growing up in Los Angeles with a single mother (Katherine Waterston) and an abusive older brother, Ian (Lucas Hedges) . Looking for escape and connection, Stevie wanders into a local skate shop and becomes entangled with a group of older skateboarders: Ray (Na-Kel Smith), Fourth Grade (Ryder McLaughlin), Ruben (Gio Galicia), and Olan Prenatt’s character.

What follows is a summer of discovery—friendship, first experiences, and the painful process of growing up. The film doesn’t shy away from the uglier aspects of adolescence, including toxic masculinity, substance use, and complicated relationships.

Cast and Production

Key Production Details:

• Director: Jonah Hill

• Writers: Jonah Hill

• Cinematography: Christopher Blauvelt

• Running Time: 85 minutes 

• Budget: $1.7 million 

• Box Office: $9.3 million 

Why Mid90s Matters: A Cultural Touchstone

Mid90s stands out in the coming-of-age genre for several reasons. It’s not just a nostalgia trip—it’s a film with genuine cultural significance.

Authenticity Above All

Jonah Hill spent three years writing Mid90s, and his commitment to authenticity shows . From the 4:3 aspect ratio mimicking VHS skate tapes to the painstaking recreation of period details (Hill noted that even the shape of a Doritos bag was different in 1995), the film is a labor of love.

The film earned praise for treating skateboarding culture with respect rather than as a punchline or stereotypical backdrop. As Hill told NPR, skateboarding gave him “a lens that I saw most things through,” and he was determined to represent it authentically.

A Commentary on Masculinity

Hill has been clear that Mid90s functions as a commentary on masculinity . The film depicts how young men communicate—often through violence, posturing, and emotional repression—while also showing moments of genuine connection and care among the group.

Critics have noted that the film addresses these themes without being preachy. As one review put it, Hill “isn’t a moralist” but presents complex characters with both good and bad qualities, allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions.

Critical Reception

Mid90s received “generally favorable reviews” from critics, with a Metacritic score of 66 out of 100 . Critics praised Hill’s direction and the film’s sense of nostalgia:

• The Hollywood Reporter: Called it “a gem that feels simultaneously informed by its author’s adolescence and the product of a serious artist’s observational distance”.

• The Globe and Mail: Described it as “hilarious, touching and nervy,” adding that the film “doesn’t feel like a recreation of an era so much as a lost artifact of the time”.

• SlashFilm: Gave it a 9.5 out of 10, calling it “a heartfelt coming-of-age story made with real wisdom and insight into what makes young men tick”.

Controversies

The film also attracted criticism for its use of period-appropriate racial and homophobic slurs and its depiction of underage sexuality . In response, Hill explained:

“The point of the movie is that nothing’s black or white. I’m not a moralist; I’m not here to tell an audience how they should feel.”

This willingness to show uncomfortable truths, rather than sanitizing the past, is part of what makes Mid90s a significant work.

Where to Watch Mid90s: Streaming Guide

One of the most common questions about Mid90s is “where can I watch it?” Streaming availability changes frequently, so here’s the current picture.

Is Mid90s on Netflix?

For U.S. viewers: Mid90s is currently not available on Netflix in the United States. The film was previously available on Netflix in some regions but has since been removed from many territories.

For U.K. viewers: Mid90s is also not available on Netflix UK; it was removed from the platform on June 1, 2021.

Where Can You Watch Mid90s?

Updated as of 2025 

Can You Watch Mid90s for Free?

While Mid90s isn’t widely available on free ad-supported services, it’s worth checking platforms like Tubi periodically, as their catalog changes monthly. However, as of 2025, Mid90s isn’t consistently available on free streaming services.

Regional Variations

Streaming rights vary by country. Some regions may still have Mid90s available on Netflix or other platforms. Services like JustWatch can provide real-time availability in your location.

How to Watch Mid90s: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check your preferred platform: Start with Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV+, where the film is reliably available for rental or purchase.

2. Rental vs. Purchase: Renting is typically cheaper ($3.99–$5.99) for a 48-hour viewing window. Purchasing ($9.99–$14.99) gives you permanent access in your digital library.

3. Check local availability: If you’re outside the U.S., use JustWatch.com or a similar service to check availability in your country.

4. Consider physical media: The film is also available on DVD and Blu-ray, which may be available through your local library or for purchase online.

5. Monitor free platforms: Occasionally, films rotate onto ad-supported services like Tubi or Pluto TV.

Key Features of Mid90s

Visual Style

Hill shot Mid90s in a 4:3 aspect ratio using Super 16mm film stock. This decision evokes the feel of VHS skate tapes and home video, adding to the film’s period authenticity. The cinematography by Christopher Blauvelt uses fisheye lenses and handheld camerawork that mirrors the skate videos the characters themselves might watch.

Soundtrack

The film’s soundtrack features 1990s hip hop and punk, reflecting the music that defined skate culture of the era . While not as commercially massive as some 1990s soundtracks like Clueless or Romeo + Juliet, the Mid90s soundtrack is meticulously curated to match the film’s authentic aesthetic.

Performances

Sunny Suljic, who was 11 when filming began, delivers a breakthrough performance as Stevie . Lucas Hedges, already known for his work in Manchester by the Sea and Lady Bird, is “scarily translating an era’s worth of Fred Durst-meets-Eminem rage into one scowl” as Ian.

Benefits of Watching Mid90s

• Authentic Representation: For those who lived through the 1990s skate scene, Mid90s offers a rare and accurate depiction of that world.

• Emotional Resonance: The film deals with themes of belonging, family dysfunction, and the search for identity in ways that resonate across generations.

• Strong Performances: Young actors Sunny Suljic and Na-Kel Smith are both discoveries who carry the film with naturalism and depth.

• Compact Runtime: At just 85 minutes, Mid90s tells its story efficiently, without filler.

• A Signature Debut: For fans of Jonah Hill’s career, this film represents a major artistic statement—a passion project years in the making.

Common Mistakes When Watching Mid90s

1. Expecting a Straight Comedy: While funny moments exist, Mid90s is a drama that doesn’t pull punches. Going in expecting nonstop laughs will leave you blindsided by the film’s intensity.

2. Missing the Visual Choices: The 4:3 aspect ratio and Super 16mm film are deliberate creative decisions, not technical shortcomings.

3. Disregarding the Ending: Some viewers find the film’s conclusion ambiguous. Pay attention—Hill’s choices are purposeful and reward close watching.

4. Overlooking the Soundtrack: The music isn’t just background noise; it’s integral to setting the tone and period.

Expert Tips

From Jonah Hill

• “It’s not black and white”: Hill emphasizes that his characters are neither heroes nor villains—they’re complex people whose actions may trouble audiences but are portrayed honestly.

• “I’m not a moralist”: The film doesn’t tell you how to feel about its characters’ choices. That’s by design.

From Critics

• Watch carefully: The film’s carefully observed details reveal character and theme. The Globe and Mail notes that it “drills down on all the core elements of a solid drama: mood, character, a firm sense of time and place”.

• Consider the commentary: One critic described the film as “a portrait of adolescence that allows every emotion and every decision—from the most relatable at any age to the most boneheaded—to exist without irony, judgement, or condescension”.

Comparison Table: Mid90s vs. Similar Films

Pros and Cons of Mid90s

Pros:

✅ Authentic portrayal of skate culture 
✅ Strong debut from director Jonah Hill 
✅ Standout performance by Sunny Suljic 
✅ Evocative 1990s aesthetic 
✅ Compact, no-filler runtime 

Cons:

❌ Controversial content may be challenging for some viewers 
❌ Some critics find it derivative of earlier films 
❌ Not currently on major streaming platforms without rental
❌ Supporting characters could be more developed 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Mid90s on Netflix?

A: As of 2025, Mid90s is not available on Netflix in the United States or United Kingdom.

Q: Where can I watch Mid90s movie?

A: You can rent or purchase Mid90s on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+.

Q: Can I watch Mid90s for free?

A: Currently, Mid90s is not consistently available on free ad-supported platforms, though availability on services like Tubi can change.

Q: What is Mid90s about?

A: Mid90s follows 13-year-old Stevie as he escapes a troubled home by joining a group of older skateboarders in 1990s Los Angeles.

Q: Is Mid90s a true story?

A: No, Mid90s is not a true story or biopic, though it’s inspired by Jonah Hill’s experiences growing up skateboarding in Los Angeles.

Q: Who directed Mid90s?

A: Jonah Hill wrote and directed Mid90s in his feature directorial debut.

Q: What is the Mid90s rating?

A: Mid90s is rated R and carries an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Q: What is the Mid90s running time?

A: The film is 85 minutes long.

Future Trends: The Legacy of Mid90s

Mid90s represents a continuing trend in Hollywood where actor-directors make their debuts with deeply personal projects. Since its release, Hill has indicated he wants to continue directing, and Mid90s has become a touchstone for filmmakers interested in authentic coming-of-age stories.

Why It Endures

1. Skateboarding in Cinema: The film helped shift how skate culture is represented in mainstream media, avoiding stereotypes and showcasing the sport’s community aspect.

2. Young Cast: Many of the young actors in Mid90s have continued to build careers, with Suljic appearing in Killing of a Sacred Deer and other independent films.

3. A24’s Brand: The film fits perfectly within A24’s reputation for distinctive, high-quality independent cinema.

What’s Next?

Jonah Hill has spoken about continuing to direct, though his next project has been delayed. Mid90s has established him as a filmmaker with a unique voice, and audiences will likely see more from him behind the camera.

Conclusion

Mid90s is a significant work of independent cinema—a coming-of-age story that captures the specific texture of 1990s Los Angeles skate culture while exploring universal themes of belonging, adolescence, and masculinity. Jonah Hill’s directorial debut has earned its place in the conversation about great modern coming-of-age films, alongside works like Lady Bird and Eighth Grade.

While finding Mid90s to watch requires a bit of effort—it’s currently not on Netflix and demands a rental or purchase—the investment is worthwhile. The film rewards viewers with authentic performances, a strong visual identity, and an emotional honesty that stands out in its genre.

Final verdict: If you appreciate coming-of-age dramas, skate culture, or Jonah Hill’s artistic evolution, Mid90s is essential viewing.

Key Takeaways

• Director: Jonah Hill’s acclaimed directorial debut

• Main Cast: Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges, Katherine Waterston, Na-Kel Smith

• Plot: 13-year-old Stevie escapes his troubled home by joining a group of skateboarders in 1990s LA

• Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+ (rental/purchase)

• Netflix Availability: Not currently available on Netflix in U.S. or UK

• Rating: 80% on Rotten Tomatoes 

• Runtime: 85 minutes

• Why It Matters: A culturally authentic, emotionally resonant coming-of-age tale

Call to Action

Ready to watch Mid90s? Check Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV+ today to rent or purchase the film. If you’re in a country not covered here, use a service like JustWatch to find Mid90s availability in your region.

Have you seen Mid90s? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on social media using #Mid90sMovie.

Sources

1. Netflix – Mid90s title availability information 

2. NPR – Jonah Hill interview, “It Wasn’t Cool To Care In The ‘Mid90s’ — But Jonah Hill Does” 

3. Wikipedia – Mid90s production details, box office, critical reception 

4. The Globe and Mail – Review of Mid90s 

5. Stream Tracker – Current availability information 

6. Flixboss – Netflix UK availability history 

7. SHOOTonline – Jonah Hill interview on Mid90s 

8. SlashFilm – Mid90s review 

9. Metacritic (via IMDb) – Mid90s critic reviews 

10. The New Daily – 1990s film soundtracks context 

11. ABC/Double J – 1990s soundtrack context 

Note: Streaming availability changes frequently. Check current platforms for the most up-to-date information.

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