Introduction to ‘The Edge of Seventeen’
The coming-of-age genre has long been a staple of American cinema, offering audiences a window into the tumultuous period of adolescence. Among the pantheon of films that delve into the teenage experience, “The Edge of Seventeen” stands out as a poignant, yet humor-filled exploration of the trials and tribulations that define growing up. Released in 2016, this film was directed by Kelly Fremon Craig in her directorial debut and produced by notable filmmaker James L. Brooks. It stars Hailee Steinfeld as Nadine, a high school junior navigating the complexities of friendship, family, and self-identity.
“The Edge of Seventeen” garnered critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise for Steinfeld’s performance and Craig’s screenplay. The film received a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the consensus highlighting its sharp script and strong performances. It was lauded for its authentic portrayal of teenage life, devoid of the glamorization or oversimplification often found in teen dramas. Instead, “The Edge of Seventeen” presents a raw, unvarnished look at adolescence, making it a significant entry in the genre of teen movies.
At its core, the film is an exploration of teenage angst, a theme universal and timeless in its relevance. Nadine’s journey is one marked by intense emotions, from the despair of feeling misunderstood by her family and peers to the exhilaration of first love. However, what sets “The Edge of Seventeen” apart is its treatment of these experiences not as mere hurdles to be overcome but as integral parts of Nadine’s path to self-discovery and maturity. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker aspects of teenage life, including the impact of social media, the pressure to conform, and the struggle with mental health issues. Yet, it approaches these subjects with a nuanced sensitivity, avoiding the trap of melodrama.
Identity and the journey to adulthood are also central themes in “The Edge of Seventeen.” Nadine’s struggle to define herself outside of her relationships with others—be it her popular older brother, her widowed mother, or her best friend—mirrors the quest for identity that many teenagers face. The film adeptly portrays the fluidity of teenage identity, showing how it can be shaped and reshaped by experiences, relationships, and personal growth. This exploration is critical in understanding the teenage psyche and is what makes the film resonate with both adolescent and adult viewers.
Another aspect of the film’s appeal is its setting and cultural context. Set in an American high school, “The Edge of Seventeen” taps into the rich tradition of high school movies but updates the genre for a contemporary audience. It acknowledges the role of technology and social media in modern teenage life, exploring how these tools can both connect and isolate. The film’s setting serves as a microcosm for the broader societal pressures teenagers face, from the quest for social acceptance to the navigation of online personas versus real-life identities.
The film’s initial reception was noteworthy not just for the critical acclaim it received but also for the conversations it sparked about the representation of teenagers in cinema. “The Edge of Seventeen” was celebrated for offering a more realistic, relatable portrayal of adolescence than many of its predecessors. It challenged the stereotypes and tropes often associated with teen movies, presenting its characters as complex, multifaceted individuals rather than caricatures. This authenticity is a significant reason for the film’s enduring appeal and its place in discussions about the evolution of the teen movie genre.
Dissecting the Dual Layers of Angst and Comedy
“The Edge of Seventeen” stands as a masterclass in blending the weight of teenage angst with the levity of comedy, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with audiences. This delicate balance allows the film to explore the complex emotions and challenges of adolescence, while also providing the relief and universality found in humor. At the heart of this approach is the film’s protagonist, Nadine, whose journey encapsulates the highs and lows of teenage life with remarkable authenticity.
Nadine, as portrayed by Hailee Steinfeld, is a character filled with contradictions. She is at once witty and awkward, confident and insecure, making her an ideal conduit for the film’s exploration of teenage angst. Nadine’s experiences—struggling with the loss of her father, feeling alienated from her family, and navigating the complexities of friendship and first love—offer a poignant reflection of the tumultuous nature of adolescence. Her character development is a testament to the film’s nuanced approach to storytelling, where growth is not linear but a series of forward leaps and setbacks.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to portray Nadine’s internal struggles with both gravity and humor. The screenplay, rich with sharp dialogue and relatable scenarios, uses comedy not as a diversion but as a lens through which to view the more serious aspects of Nadine’s life. For instance, her exchanges with her history teacher, Mr. Bruner, are filled with sarcastic banter that not only provides comedic relief but also reveals Nadine’s vulnerability and desire for connection. These interactions underscore the film’s adeptness at using humor to deepen character relationships and enhance the narrative’s emotional impact.
Specific scenes and dialogues in “The Edge of Seventeen” exemplify the seamless integration of humor and angst. One memorable moment is Nadine’s impromptu confession to Mr. Bruner about her disastrous attempt at romance, which, while humorous, lays bare her feelings of isolation and desperation for understanding. Similarly, her awkward encounters with her crush, Nick, are filled with comedic missteps that highlight the awkwardness of teenage infatuation, yet also underscore the deep-seated fears and insecurities driving her actions. These moments, rich with both laughter and pathos, engage the audience on multiple levels, eliciting empathy and recognition of the shared awkwardness of growing up.
The film’s comedic elements also serve to broaden its appeal, making the story accessible to those who might not typically engage with a narrative centered on teenage angst. By weaving humor into the fabric of Nadine’s story, “The Edge of Seventeen” invites viewers to reflect on their own adolescent experiences, regardless of their age or background. This universality is a hallmark of the film’s writing, which skillfully navigates the spectrum of teenage emotions without ever diminishing their significance.
Moreover, “The Edge of Seventeen” challenges conventional portrayals of teenage life by refusing to categorize its characters into neat archetypes. Nadine, for example, is not simply the troubled teen nor the quirky outsider; she is a fully realized character whose humor is as much a part of her identity as her struggles. This refusal to simplify or stereotype adds a layer of complexity to the film, making its exploration of teenage angst all the more authentic and impactful.
The Art of Writing Teenage Characters: Lessons from ‘The Edge of Seventeen’
“The Edge of Seventeen” has distinguished itself as a seminal work in the teen movie genre, primarily through its authentic portrayal of its teenage protagonist, Nadine. The film’s success offers valuable lessons for writers on crafting teenage characters that are both believable and engaging. Through a combination of authentic dialogue, relatable scenarios, and complex character development, “The Edge of Seventeen” provides a blueprint for creating narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Creating believable, relatable teenage characters requires a deep understanding of the adolescent experience. “The Edge of Seventeen” excels in this regard, presenting characters that are multidimensional and reflective of the real challenges and complexities facing today’s youth. Nadine’s character, in particular, embodies the contradictions of teenage life—she is at once vulnerable and defiant, seeking both independence and connection. This authenticity is achieved through careful character development, where each decision and dialogue serves to reveal deeper layers of her personality. For writers, Nadine’s portrayal underscores the importance of investing time in understanding their characters’ motivations, fears, and desires, ensuring they evolve in ways that are consistent with their experiences and environment.
Dialogue plays a crucial role in creating relatable teenage characters. “The Edge of Seventeen” showcases the power of dialogue that captures the unique voice of youth—sharp, witty, and often laced with irony, yet also capable of conveying deep emotional truths. The film’s dialogue feels spontaneous and genuine, mirroring the way teenagers communicate with each other and the adults in their lives. For aspiring writers, the lesson is clear: authentic dialogue is key to creating characters that speak to the audience on a personal level. This involves listening to how teenagers speak, understanding the slang and idioms unique to their age group, and capturing the rhythm and flow of their conversations. However, it also requires a sensitivity to the emotional undercurrents that dialogue can reveal, using language as a tool to expose the vulnerabilities and strengths of teenage characters.
The scenarios in which characters find themselves are equally important in crafting a compelling narrative for young characters. “The Edge of Seventeen” presents a series of relatable scenarios that, while specific to Nadine’s journey, reflect broader teenage issues such as familial conflict, the quest for identity, and the complexities of friendships and romantic relationships. These scenarios are effective because they are grounded in the reality of teenage life, allowing viewers to see aspects of their own experiences reflected on screen. Writers can learn from this approach by grounding their narratives in scenarios that, while perhaps ordinary, are ripe with emotional and psychological complexity. This means embracing the mundane aspects of teenage life—school, family, social media—and exploring their potential for drama and conflict.
The impact of “The Edge of Seventeen” on the genre of teen movies is significant. By prioritizing character depth and emotional authenticity over plot contrivances and stereotypes, the film challenges traditional narratives and paves the way for a more nuanced portrayal of adolescence. Its success demonstrates that audiences crave stories that treat teenage experiences with respect and complexity. For writers, this signifies a shift away from formulaic storytelling towards narratives that are reflective of the diverse, multifaceted experiences of youth. It also highlights the importance of creating characters and stories that transcend age, offering insights and reflections that are relevant to both teens and adults.
Aspiring writers can learn a great deal from “The Edge of Seventeen’s” approach to storytelling. Firstly, the importance of research and empathy in understanding the teenage psyche cannot be overstated. Writers must be willing to dive deep into the world of their teenage characters, exploring their inner lives with curiosity and respect. Secondly, the film underscores the value of authenticity—both in dialogue and in the depiction of teenage life. This involves a commitment to portraying the beauty and brutality of adolescence with honesty and sensitivity. Finally, “The Edge of Seventeen” illustrates the power of complex characters who can challenge and subvert audience expectations, reminding writers that at the heart of every great story are characters that feel real and alive.
In conclusion, “The Edge of Seventeen” offers a masterclass in writing teenage characters and narratives that resonate on a profound level. Its contributions to the teen movie genre serve as a valuable resource for writers seeking to craft stories that capture the essence of the teenage experience. By focusing on authenticity, character depth, and emotional resonance, writers can create narratives that not only entertain but also illuminate the complexities of growing up. “The Edge of Seventeen” stands as a testament to the enduring power of stories that speak to the universal journey of adolescence, offering inspiration and guidance for the next generation of storytellers.
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A.I. in Screen Trade 