Navigating the awkward, emotional rollercoaster that is high school life has never been more relatable than in The Edge of Seventeen. Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, this coming-of-age drama stars Hailee Steinfeld as Nadine, a witty but socially awkward teenager struggling to make sense of her world. Set in present-day suburban America, the film deftly captures the essence of teenage angst, confusion, and self-discovery. With its mix of sharp dialogue, humor, and heartfelt emotion, the movie fits squarely within the genre of teen dramedy, but with an edge that makes it stand out from the rest.
The story follows Nadine, a high school junior whose life spirals into chaos when her best friend, Krista (Haley Lu Richardson), starts dating her older brother, Darian (Blake Jenner). Already dealing with the loss of her father and the awkwardness of adolescence, Nadine feels increasingly isolated as her friendships fracture and her family relationships strain. What follows is an intimate portrayal of Nadine’s internal battle with self-identity, loneliness, and her desperate need for connection. Along the way, she leans on her sardonic teacher, Mr. Bruner (Woody Harrelson), who provides a blend of brutal honesty and subtle guidance. The film doesn’t follow a typical formula of teenage rebellion or melodramatic climax but instead presents a realistic, often painfully relatable, view of growing up.
One of the most striking aspects of this movie is the acting, particularly Hailee’s performance as Nadine. Her portrayal is nuanced and deeply layered, capturing the complexities of adolescence in a way that feels raw and authentic. Nadine’s wit and sarcasm are a defense mechanism, hiding her insecurities and deep sadness. Hailee delivers these emotional swings effortlessly, making Nadine’s awkwardness and vulnerability both humorous and heartbreaking. Whether it’s a cutting remark or a tearful breakdown, Hailee’s performance resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Woody’s role as Mr. Bruner is another highlight, offering a perfect foil to Nadine’s emotional turbulence. His deadpan humor and moments of surprising wisdom ground the film in a more mature perspective, while his interactions with Nadine provide some of the film’s most touching and funny scenes.
From a directorial standpoint, Kelly Fremon Craig’s debut is both confident and intimate. She has a knack for capturing small, seemingly inconsequential moments that give the story its heart. The way she frames Nadine’s world visually—often isolating her in wide shots or placing her awkwardly within a group—mirrors her internal feelings of being out of place. The pacing of the film is well-balanced, moving smoothly between moments of humor and heartbreak without feeling forced. One scene that stands out is a lunchroom confrontation between Nadine and Krista, where the use of close-up shots amplifies the tension between the two, making the viewer feel every bit of Nadine’s frustration and hurt.
The film’s soundtrack is another key component, effectively setting the mood and reinforcing Nadine’s emotional landscape. The indie and pop tracks peppered throughout the film reflect her youthful energy and angst, while the score subtly complements the more introspective moments. In one particularly moving sequence, a melancholic track underscores Nadine’s realization that she’s been pushing people away, enhancing the emotional depth of the scene without overwhelming it. The music is well-chosen and works to enhance the audience’s connection to Nadine’s internal world, rather than simply providing background noise.
Cinematographically, The Edge of Seventeen employs a naturalistic style that keeps the focus on the characters rather than distracting with overly stylized visuals. The lighting is soft and natural, lending the film a grounded and intimate feel, which suits the personal nature of Nadine’s story. The use of natural settings—like school corridors, family homes, and coffee shops—further enhances the relatability of the film. The camera work is unobtrusive, allowing the performances to shine and the story to unfold organically. In scenes where Nadine is feeling particularly vulnerable, the framing often becomes tighter, emphasizing her isolation and inner turmoil.
While the film touches on familiar teenage themes—identity, friendship, family dynamics—it’s the sharp, witty script that elevates the story beyond cliché. Nadine’s dialogue is packed with biting humor and self-deprecation, but it never veers into caricature. The writing is smart and incisive, capturing the essence of teenage frustration without oversimplifying it. One particularly memorable line comes during an argument with her brother when Nadine exclaims, “Life is a dark hole of nothingness,” a statement that is both exaggeratedly dramatic and deeply reflective of how many teens feel. The humor in the film isn’t just for laughs—it’s a tool for survival in the chaotic world of adolescence.
As the film progresses, the themes of loneliness and self-acceptance become more prominent. Nadine’s journey is not just about reconciling with her best friend or brother but about learning to accept herself. In one of the most powerful scenes, Mr. Bruner tells Nadine, “You’re not as alone as you think.” This simple statement encapsulates the central theme of the film: that despite feeling like an outsider, everyone is struggling in their own way. The film doesn’t offer easy solutions to Nadine’s problems, but it does suggest that empathy and connection are crucial in overcoming them.
Overall, The Edge of Seventeen is a deeply resonant film that captures the messiness of adolescence with humor, heart, and honesty. Hailee’s standout performance, combined with a sharp script and deft direction, makes this film more than just another teenage drama—it’s a moving exploration of what it means to grow up. It’s not afraid to show the darker, more painful sides of adolescence, but it balances those moments with warmth and humor. For anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place, this film serves as a reminder that those feelings, while overwhelming at the time, are universal and temporary.
If you’re looking for a coming-of-age film that goes beyond the usual tropes and offers something real, The Edge of Seventeen is a must-watch. Its emotional depth, combined with clever humor and outstanding performances, makes it a standout in its genre. Whether you’re a teenager or long past those years, Nadine’s story is one that will stay with you.
