Movie spotlight
Lonely Seventeen
The story of Lonely Seventeen centers on Tan-mei, a seventeen-year-old high school girl who comes from a wealthy family. The film begins with Tan-mei inviting her cousin, who is also her sister’s fiancé, Feng Tse (Ke Jun-Xiong), to come over to her place on a rainy night. However, Feng Tse secretly visits his mistress first and gets seriously wounded after a fight with the woman. When he tries to make a second stop at Tan-mei’s place, he loses control of his car and is killed in a car accident. After the death of Feng Tse, Tan-mei and the mistress start to behave strangely, and both of them are sent to the same mental health institute after their emotional breakdown.
Insights
Plot Summary
This drama follows a young man struggling with isolation and unrequited love during his adolescence. Set against the backdrop of a changing social landscape, he navigates the complexities of his feelings and desires. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery and the pain of growing up alone.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'Lonely Seventeen' received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its sensitive portrayal of teenage angst and strong central performance. However, some found the pacing to be slow and the themes perhaps too bleak for wider audiences. Over time, it has gained a cult following for its raw emotional honesty.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its authentic depiction of adolescent loneliness and internal struggles.
Some reviewers noted a deliberate, contemplative pacing that might alienate viewers seeking more action.
The film's emotional depth and relatable themes resonated with many, particularly younger audiences.
Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's poignant exploration of loneliness and the challenges of growing up. Many found the protagonist's journey to be emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, though a segment of viewers felt the story was overly somber.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Golden Globes.
Fun Fact
The film's soundtrack features a rare early collaboration between composer Lalo Schifrin and lyricist Hal David, who would later become renowned for their work on 'Mission: Impossible' and numerous popular songs, respectively.
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