Matialth
Good concept, poorly executed.
SincereFinest
disgusting, overrated, pointless
Yash Wade
Close shines in drama with strong language, adult themes.
Cissy Évelyne
It really made me laugh, but for some moments I was tearing up because I could relate so much.
Wendy Godsend
I was very prepared to like this movie a lot, given all the raving reviews. I left the film feeling like I'd eavesdropped on several gay teenagers gossiping about sex.Eric's irrelevant friendship and oddly specific boy drama in his personal life dominate the screen rather than addressing the finding and accepting of sexuality in a coming-of-age. I saw no redeeming qualities nor realism in the boys' relationship. It was an entire film's worth of meaningless, cheesy scenes between these two boys who hardly even knew each other, absent of chemistry, sentimentality or even friendship. I found it hard to imagine why they liked one another, and even harder to like either myself.Eric is used for sexual pleasure by numerous other boys, made fun of by the kids at school and loses his best friend. He's provided absolutely no glimmer of hope by the end; no silver lining, no promise that he finds contentment in himself or acceptance in his peers and family.Chris Stafford and Andersen Gabrych's performances were lackluster, unconvincing, and amateur, failing to save an already-sinking ship.I'm giving Edge of Seventeen four stars because I think young gay men may feel at least somewhat represented in their struggles, and I believe that is still important to consider. It isn't, by any means, a worthwhile movie if you're out of the rampantly hormonal age.
BHorrorWriter
First off I must admit, I was only 7 or 8 in 1984, the year this film takes place. However, that does not mean I do not understand the harsh reality of growing up and coming of age. It truly does not matter what year it is or what the subject matter is. In this film, the subject matter just happens to be a young man coming to terms with the fact he is homosexual.Big deal! All young men go through awkward and difficult times in their young adult life. So what! Puberty, sexuality, the size of their Johnson....All young men have at one point questioned themselves regarding their sexuality. I am not 100% gay, but that doesn't mean I don't understand what the lead character was going through.Unfortunately, the reality of this film is dead on. Most gay men are only after sex. Anyone reading this that denies that...read it again...I said MOST. Of the gay men I know and associate with, they will tell you the same thing. I felt this movie, as harsh and true to life as it was, did not, in my opinion, help foster any sense of pride for being gay or bisexual.This film, though full of reality and complex situations, does not deliver the goods, in my opinion. It only makes people look at gays, lesbians and bisexuals as freaks, drug addicts, partiers, etc. And in most cases, it is a sad true reality.
revelinit
Can't relate to Sixteen Candles? or Pretty In Pink? Well, here is your movie. A bit racier than a John Hughes film, but more REAL. No dream hunks (Michael Schoeffling mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm), no grand gestures, and no wacky sidekicks.Sure, the characters are a bit "stereotypical", but remember back to when you first came out, didn't they all seem like stereotypes? Weren't the only people you KNEW were gay the ones that were OBVIOUSLY gay?This movie captures the angst and the uncertainty perfectly. And those of us who were in high school then, we can relate to how hard being labeled the "Queer" was. These kids all do a great job of acting these parts. Awkward girl with a crush on a gay guy, gay guy trying to figure out why he isn't straight, and the cast of other "Misfits" who befriend the gay guy and show him the "ropes". Don't forget the predatory gay men who take advantage, and the Mother who just wants to "understand" and be there for him.If you were ever a teenager coming to terms with who you are, this movie will speak to you. Like they have read your mind. I don't think enough honor has been paid to whomever wrote this movie. I am amazed to see someone hit the nail that directly on the head. Worth the watch for any gay person (especially boys). You are not alone!!
roomsonfire
This is my favorite gay themed film of all time. Set it 1984(with an awesome authentic 1980's soundtrack), Eric is enjoying the summer before his senior year in high school(played with perfection by the gorgeous Chris Stafford). His best friend, Maggie, is in love with him, but Eric is changing. He is discovering his desire for guys. This beautifully directed and scripted coming-out film boasts a fabulous cast(including a tender performance by Lea DeLarla), beauitiful acting, and startling reality. Chris Stafford is so amazing and cute and I hope to see him in many more films.