"The Edge of Seventeen" is a coming-of-age dramedy that delves into the tumultuous life of a high school junior navigating the challenges of adolescence. Released on November 18, 2016, the film was directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, who also penned the screenplay.
Synopsis:
Nadine Byrd (Hailee Steinfeld) is a high school junior who feels like an outsider in her own life. Her feelings of isolation intensify when her best friend, Krista (Haley Lu Richardson), starts dating her popular older brother, Darian (Blake Jenner).
Feeling betrayed and alone, Nadine finds solace in her history teacher, Mr. Bruner (Woody Harrelson), who offers both humor and advice. As Nadine navigates the ups and downs of teenage life, she learns about friendship, love, and the importance of self-acceptance.
Themes and Significance:
The film touches on several themes pertinent to adolescence, including the search for identity, the complexities of friendship and family relationships, and the challenges of mental health. It offers a raw and realistic portrayal of teenage angst, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in overcoming life's obstacles.
Cinematic Elements:
"The Edge of Seventeen" is notable for its sharp dialogue and strong character development. The film's cinematography captures the essence of teenage life, with close-ups that emphasize the characters' emotions and wide shots that depict their environment. The soundtrack, featuring both contemporary and classic tracks, complements the narrative and enhances the overall mood.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming Options: fuboTV, DIRECTV, Freeform
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Australia (AU):
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Streaming Options: Amazon Prime Video, Stan
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Telstra TV, Fetch TV. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Great Britain (GB):
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Streaming Options: Sundance Now Amazon Channel
- Buy Options: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Germany (DE):
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Streaming Options: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Amazon Video, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Chili, Microsoft Store. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Brazil (BR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Streaming Options: Netflix, Oi Play, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Claro video, Amazon Video. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Spain (ES):
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Streaming Options: None
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming Options: None
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video, Bbox VOD. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming Options: Amazon Prime Video, Club Illico
- Buy Options: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video. (Note: Some options are repeated)
- Free Options: None
Production Details:
- Director and Screenplay: Kelly Fremon Craig
- Producers: James L. Brooks, Richard Sakai, and Julie Ansell
- Filming Locations: The movie was primarily shot in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, capturing the essence of American high school life against the scenic backdrop of the Pacific Northwest.
- Challenges: One of the challenges faced during production was capturing the authenticity of teenage dialogue and ensuring that the characters felt real and relatable.
- Budget and Box Office: The film was made on a budget of approximately $9 million and grossed over $18 million worldwide.
Reception and Awards:
- Critical Reception: Critics praised "The Edge of Seventeen" for its witty script, strong performances, especially by Hailee Steinfeld, and its refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre. It was lauded for its honest portrayal of teenage life and its emotional depth.
- Audience Reception: Audiences resonated with the film's relatable characters and situations, making it a favorite among both teens and adults.
- Awards and Nominations: Hailee Steinfeld received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical for her role as Nadine.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Casting Choices: While Hailee Steinfeld was always a top choice for the role of Nadine, other actresses were considered before finalizing the cast.
- Easter Eggs: In one of the scenes, a poster of "The Breakfast Club," another iconic coming-of-age film, can be spotted in the background.
- Controversies: The film sparked discussions about its portrayal of mental health, with some praising it for its realism and others critiquing it for potentially oversimplifying complex issues.
In conclusion, "The Edge of Seventeen" stands as a testament to the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. With its strong performances, relatable characters, and poignant narrative, it remains a significant entry in the coming-of-age genre.