Edge of Seventeen

Synopsis:

The summer of 1984 was about as 80s as the 80s ever got. Stuck right in the middle of it is Eric Hunter, heading towards his senior year, and passing the summer working at a local amusement park in the fast food restaurant. He is joined by his long time girl/friend Maggie, as they don their ugly brown polyester uniforms and face the world – while experimenting and questioning his own sexuality.

Quick Thoughts:

“Edge of Seventeen” was one of the first queer films that I had discovered as a teenager. It’s actually a rather iconic and groundbreaking queer film, with scenes and characters being parodied in other queer films such as “Another Gay Movie”. Set in the 80’s and full of period clothes, attitudes, and an iconic 80’s music soundtrack, it’s one enjoyable film! However, the reason that it leaves such a formidable impression is that while Eric is discovering his own sexuality, other parts of his life are not going so great. Eric’s best friend, Maggie, gets hurt because of Eric’s confusion. His mother becomes extremely suspicious and in the end, she is not really supportive of her son being gay. Yet the iconic coming-out scene is one that is actually quite realistic; not everyone’s parents are supportive of their children coming out. But the film still ends on a positive note due to Eric fully realizing who he is along with having supportive friends. If you haven’t watched this queer coming out film yet, then you need to watch it today!