Kids (1995)

Kids Poster

A day in the life of a group of teens as they travel around New York City skating, drinking, smoking and deflowering virgins.

Movie Summary
"Kids" is a 1995 American independent drama movie directed by Larry Clark and composed by Consistency Korine. The movie, characterized by its unfiltered representation of teens' lives in mid-1990s New York City, offers a provocative yet extremely honest take a look at teenage sexuality, substance abuse, and urban youth culture.

Main Characters and Plot
The film centers around Telly (Leo Fitzpatrick), a self-proclaimed "virgin cosmetic surgeon", and his good friend Casper (Justin Pierce). Telly's misogynistic pursuit of sexual conquests functions as one of the main driving forces of the narrative, while an ever-present yet somewhat detached Casper regularly accompanies him.

The film begins with Telly permeating his most current victim after encouraging her of the romantic exclusivity of their experience. He then meets Casper, and together they steal from their mother, roam the city, harass pedestrians, and use drugs. On The Other Hand, Jennie (Chloe Sevigny), among Telly's earlier sexual encounters, discovers she is HIV positive, in spite of just ever having sex with Telly.

Thematic Elements
"Kids" does not avoid addressing gritty teenage concerns such as STDs, compound misuse, and the general disillusionment and recklessness of the youth it represents. HIV/AIDS, in particular, serves a considerable role in the plot progression as it ties straight to Telly's relentless debauchery and Jennie's subsequent suffering. This extreme reality serves as a wake-up call for Jennie and the audience and supplies a stark contrast to the in-your-face hedonism that controls the movie's environment.

Important Reception
"Kids" was questionable upon release due to its specific material and portrayal of drug misuse, sexual promiscuity, and violence among teens. Nevertheless, the movie got a cult status in time for its raw and unvarnished representation of metropolitan youth culture. Critics praised its practical discussion and efficiencies, however also noted the film's potential to misinform perceptions towards teens and their activities.

Conclusion
"Kids" offers a disturbing yet mind-blowing portrayal of teenage experiences. It is a ruthless journey into the dark side of youth, not intended for the faint-hearted. Regardless of its cruelty, the film works as a timely pointer of the alarming consequences that can arise from careless habits, vulnerable sex, and the basic absence of instructions and purpose observed in some factions of modern youth. The film ends on an intense note, leaving audience to review the lives of the characters they've just witnessed, making "Kids" a haunting cinematic experience that stays with its audience long after viewing.

Top Cast

  • Leo Fitzpatrick (small)
    Leo Fitzpatrick
    Telly
  • Justin Pierce (small)
    Justin Pierce
    Casper
  • ChloĆ« Sevigny (small)
    Chloƫ Sevigny
    Jennie
  • Rosario Dawson (small)
    Rosario Dawson
    Ruby
  • Yakira Peguero (small)
    Yakira Peguero
    Darcy
  • Atabey Rodriguez (small)
    Atabey Rodriguez
    Misha
  • Harold Hunter (small)
    Harold Hunter
    Harold
  • Jon Abrahams (small)
    Jon Abrahams
    Steven
  • Sajan Bhagat
    Paul
  • Sarah Henderson
    Girl #1
  • Joseph Chan
    Deli Owner