Movie: The edge of seventeen
Okay, so I just HAVE to talk about 'The Edge of Seventeen' (2016) again. Every time I watch it, I find something new to appreciate, and honestly, it’s become one of my all-time favorite coming-of-age films. If you haven't seen it, stop what you’re doing and add it to your watch list immediately! The movie perfectly captures that awkward, excruciating, and exhilarating period of being a teenager. Nadine Franklin, played brilliantly by Hailee Steinfeld, is probably one of the most authentically flawed and relatable protagonists I've ever seen on screen. She's messy, she's dramatic, she makes terrible decisions, but she's also incredibly vulnerable and just trying to figure things out. Who didn't feel like Nadine at seventeen? I certainly did. One of the things that makes this movie so special is its incredible script. The dialogue feels so real, especially the witty banter and the brutally honest emotional outbursts. Remember that iconic line, "Do you wanna have sex right now?" It perfectly encapsulates Nadine's impulsive, somewhat chaotic energy and her desperate attempts to connect (or sometimes push people away). It’s moments like these, where the movie isn't afraid to be a little uncomfortable or raw, that make it truly stand out. Beyond Nadine, the supporting cast is phenomenal. Woody Harrelson as Mr. Bruner, Nadine’s sarcastic history teacher, provides some much-needed comedic relief and unexpected wisdom. Their interactions are gold, offering glimpses of mentorship through cynical humor. And let's not forget Hayden, her charming love interest, or Krista, her best friend with whom she has a complicated falling out. The film really dives deep into the complexities of friendship and family, especially when life throws a wrench in your plans. It’s not just about the drama, though; there are genuine laugh-out-loud moments and incredibly tender ones too. The film doesn't shy away from showing the pain of feeling like an outcast, but it also celebrates the small victories and the gradual process of self-acceptance. It reminds us that it's okay to not have all the answers, and that sometimes, the people who annoy us the most are exactly who we need. If you're looking for a film that truly understands what it feels like to be on "the edge of seventeen," navigating first loves, broken friendships, and the overwhelming feeling of not fitting in, then this is absolutely the movie for you. It's a powerful reminder that even in our darkest, most awkward moments, we're not alone, and there's always a path forward.
