Watch Seventeen

Seventeen is a coming-of-age film that was released in 1983. The movie is a lighthearted and honest portrayal of the experiences of teenagers in the early 1980s. The film is directed by Joel DeMott and Jeff Kreines and is a documentary-style depiction of the lives of four high school seniors from Muncie, Indiana. The movie is shot using a handheld camera and is presented in a raw, unpolished style, which is reminiscent of the cinema verite movement. The movie captures the lives of the four friends over the course of their senior year, as they navigate the complexities of teenage life. The film does not follow a traditional narrative structure but instead shows glimpses into the lives of the characters, painting a picture of their daily routines, relationships, and challenges.

One of the central characters in the movie is Steven. Steven is a shy, sensitive teenager who is struggling to make the transition from high school to adulthood. He is deeply in love with his girlfriend, but his uncertainty about the future and his insecurities about his appearance and personality make it difficult for him to express himself. Despite his shyness, Steven is widely respected by his peers, who recognize his kindness and intelligence.

The other main characters in the movie are Chris, Angie, and Carolyn. Chris is a self-styled "troublemaker," who is always getting into fights and doing things his own way. Angie is a popular girl who is starting to feel uneasy about the social expectations placed upon her. Carolyn is a reserved young woman who is unsure of what she wants from life but is determined to make the most of her opportunities.

Throughout the movie, the four friends face a range of challenges and obstacles, such as romantic breakups, academic pressures, and family conflicts. However, the film does not present these challenges as major crises or melodramatic events. Instead, the movie focuses on the everyday struggles that teenagers face, such as trying to juggle schoolwork and a part-time job or dealing with strict parents.

One of the strengths of the movie is its ability to capture the nuances of teenage life. The film is able to convey the mood and atmosphere of the early 1980s, from the music and fashion to the slang and social dynamics. The movie is also successful in depicting the shifting nature of teenage friendships and relationships, as well as the sense of nostalgia and melancholy that accompanies the end of high school.

Another notable aspect of the movie is its portrayal of the town of Muncie. The film presents a candid and unsentimental depiction of working-class life in Indiana, revealing the struggles and frustrations of those who live there. The movie features numerous scenes in which the characters interact with their families and neighbors, showcasing the rich tapestry of life in the town.

Overall, Seventeen is an engaging and insightful movie that offers a unique perspective on teenage life in the early 1980s. The film is able to capture the joys, anxieties, and challenges of adolescence in a relatable and honest way, without resorting to cliches or stereotypes. The movie is a touching tribute to the experiences of teenagers everywhere, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.

Seventeen is a 1983 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.