The Edge of Seventeen (2016) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Edge of Seventeen (2016), directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, is a coming-of-age dramedy that captures the tumultuous experience of adolescence with humor, honesty, and heart. Starring Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, and Blake Jenner, the film offers a fresh perspective on teenage angst and self-discovery.
Plot Overview: Navigating Adolescence
The film follows Nadine Franklin (Hailee Steinfeld), a 17-year-old high school student who is struggling to find her place in the world. Nadine is socially awkward and feels isolated, especially after her best friend, Krista (Haley Lu Richardson), starts dating Nadine’s older brother, Darian (Blake Jenner).
Nadine’s life becomes increasingly complicated as she navigates the trials of high school, including her strained relationships with her family, her feelings for a classmate, and her struggle to come to terms with her own identity. With the help of her teacher, Mr. Bruner (Woody Harrelson), Nadine attempts to find a way through her turbulent teenage years.
Performances: A Strong Ensemble Cast
Hailee Steinfeld delivers a standout performance as Nadine, capturing the character’s vulnerability, wit, and frustration. Steinfeld’s portrayal is both authentic and relatable, bringing depth to Nadine’s struggles and triumphs.
Woody Harrelson plays Mr. Bruner, Nadine’s jaded but supportive teacher. Harrelson’s performance adds a layer of humor and wisdom, serving as a mentor figure who provides much-needed guidance and perspective.
Blake Jenner and Haley Lu Richardson offer strong supporting performances as Darian and Krista, respectively. Jenner’s portrayal of Nadine’s brother adds complexity to the sibling dynamic, while Richardson’s role as Nadine’s best friend highlights the challenges of evolving friendships.
Direction and Cinematography: A Refreshing Approach
Kelly Fremon Craig directs The Edge of Seventeen with a keen understanding of adolescent emotions and experiences. The film’s direction is characterized by its sharp dialogue, relatable situations, and a genuine portrayal of teenage life.
The cinematography by David Gottlieb complements the film’s tone with its naturalistic and straightforward style. The visual approach enhances the film’s authenticity, reflecting the everyday realities and emotional nuances of Nadine’s life.
Themes: Identity, Friendship, and Family
The Edge of Seventeen explores several key themes:
- Identity and Self-Discovery: The film delves into Nadine’s journey of self-discovery and her struggle to understand her own identity. It captures the confusion and growth that accompany the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
- Friendship and Betrayal: The evolving dynamic between Nadine and Krista highlights the complexities of teenage friendships. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the challenge of maintaining close relationships as people change.
- Family Dynamics: The film also addresses the impact of family relationships on personal growth. Nadine’s interactions with her family, particularly her brother and mother, reflect the challenges of navigating familial bonds during adolescence.
Reception and Legacy: A Modern Coming-of-Age Classic
The Edge of Seventeen received critical acclaim for its honest and humorous portrayal of teenage life. Critics praised Hailee Steinfeld’s performance and the film’s ability to address complex emotions with authenticity and wit.
The film has been recognized as a modern classic in the coming-of-age genre, celebrated for its relatable characters, sharp writing, and emotional depth.
Where to Watch The Edge of Seventeen Online in 2024
For those interested in watching The Edge of Seventeen (2016), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- HBO Max: Available for streaming; check for availability in your region.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming; check for availability in your region.
2. Digital Rental or Purchase
- iTunes/Apple TV: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Rent or buy in high definition.
3. DVD/Blu-ray
The Edge of Seventeen is available on DVD and Blu-ray, often including additional features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and deleted scenes.
Conclusion
The Edge of Seventeen (2016) is a refreshing and heartfelt coming-of-age film that captures the essence of adolescence with humor and sincerity. Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig and featuring strong performances by Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, and Blake Jenner, the film offers a poignant exploration of identity, friendship, and family. Its authentic portrayal of teenage life and emotional depth make it a standout entry in the genre and a must-watch for anyone navigating the complexities of growing up.
