I think the actor isn't particularly articulate in that. I'm not exactly sure I would talk about "impressing" his friends. I think it'd be more accurate to speak about been the leader and the center of attention of their little group.

It's funny because he's less of a leader mostly due to his own behaviour but at the same time he's also kinda pissed he's not the center of their little group anymore. That's been frustrating for some people, bit hey, he's just a kid after all. It's normal he's immature and self-centered. There are several scenes when we can see he's withdrawing from the group and he isn't as excited and focused as the rest of the group about whatever they're up to (going to the arcade, Halloween, Max, etc). I can totally relate to that: pushing your friends away but then blaming and resenting them when your relationship is more distant. God, I so want to punch 14 yo me right nos.