Ping Pong Summer

In Maryland, 1985, teenager Rad is forced to face down the bullies in a table tennis tournament, with only his best friend and the expertise of his mysterious Mr Miyagi-esque neighbour for guidance.

In Maryland, 1985, teenager Rad is forced to face down the bullies in a table tennis tournament, with only his best friend and the expertise of his mysterious Mr Miyagi-esque neighbour for guidance.

While the presence of Susan Sarandon and Lea Thompson may signal a degree of 1980s retro worship, Michael Tully’s assured direction ensures this semi-autobiographical coming-of-age tale never resorts to mere nostalgia, resulting in a feel-good charmer that’s sweet without the sickly aftertaste.