Edge of Seventeen

Set in Sandusky, OH, circa 1984, filmmaker David Moreton's award-winning 1998 coming-of-age drama Edge of Seventeen follows a teenager as he navigates his last year of high school while coming to terms with and accepting his homosexuality. After spending the summer working at an amusement park, where he had a brief fling with an older co-worker named Rod, Eric (Chris Stafford) begins his senior year of high school confused and questioning his sexuality, while also setting his sights on moving to New York City after graduation to pursue a music degree. Eric's burgeoning sexual awakening is complicated by feelings for his best friend and confidant, Maggie (Tina Holmes), who carries a deep, long-burning torch for Eric. The pair eventually become a couple, living a high school romance by day while Eric spends his nights at a local gay club where he is embraced and welcomed. This dual life eventually takes its toll, both on Eric and the people who love him, leading to impulsive, often reckless behavior and forcing life-changing decisions. Edge of Seventeen is a bright, charismatic film that authentically embraces its 1980s cultural milieu, bouncing with music by the Eurythmics, Bronski Beat, Toni Basil, and Flock of Seagulls, and featuring wild fashions. Stafford is excellent as the conflicted teen struggling to find his true self while staying true to himself. Extras include a conversation with Moreton and writer Todd Stephens, and deleted scenes. Recommended. (P. Morehart)