Film Introduction"Try Seventeen" is a 2002 coming-of-age film starring Elijah Wood, Franka Potente, and Mandy Moore. Directed by Jeffrey Porter and written by Charles Kephart, it was initially released under the title "All I Want" and later on retitled for digital circulation. The film checks out styles like young love, self-discovery, and browsing the complexities of life at seventeen.
Plot SummaryThe film follows the story of Jones Dillon, a heartbroken 17-year-old character depicted by Elijah Wood. Jones deserts his very first day of college to find a more real 'real world' experience, leasing an apartment building that houses a fascinating variety of characters. He's enamored with the concept of fulfilling brand-new individuals and starting his adulthood with his own rules.
Characters and PersonalitiesJones forms relationships with the eccentric individuals in his apartment building, including his neighbors-- a having a hard time professional photographer (Franka Potente) and a flirtatious starlet (Mandy Moore). He bumps into these individuals in the stairs, in the basement doing laundry, therefore forming a bond with each of them. He browses the characteristics of contrasting relationships while dealing with his impending coming-of-age problems. All at once, he is continuously having a hard time to get in touch with his absentee mom, played by Elizabeth Perkins, who communicates with him through postcards.
Central ThemesJones's character represents the confusion, idealism, and expedition that often define the late teenage years. The movie focuses on Jones's romantic and individual relationships, discomfort, and supreme growth. His naivety towards adult relationships, yearning for a dad figure, and handling the loss of a liked one serve as gripping subplots driving the narrative forward. The core style centers around the familiar adolescent battle of being caught between the pressures and expectations of the adult years and the comfort of childhood familiarity.
Secret Developments and ConclusionIn his journey of self-discovery, Jones faces concerns such as sorrow, love, and the trials of becoming a grownup. He initially leans on his brand-new neighbor Lisa (Mandy Moore) up until recognizing she is not fully grown enough for a real relationship, causing friction. From his stunning next-door neighbor Jane (Potente), he finds out about offering and receiving love with an open heart.
The film takes a poignant turn when Jones finds a dark trick about his household. His response to this, in addition to his developing relationships, form the rest of his journey, leading him to brand-new levels of maturity and self-understanding. The film does not wrap up neatly, reflecting the intrinsic messiness and unpredictability of life itself. Yet, in the end, Jones discovers some semblance of what he has always looked for-- family, love, and understanding.
General Impression"Try Seventeen" effectively catches the spirit of adolescence, stabilizing humor and pathos with emotionally resonant scenes. Elijah Wood's nuanced efficiency as Jones Dillon helps with the audience's empathy and connection with his character's journey. The film's complex characters, compelling narrative, and profound styles make for an underrated gem in the coming-of-age genre.
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