Being 17
Being 17

Movie spotlight

Being 17

2016
Movie
116 min
French

Damien lives with his mother Marianne, a doctor, while his father, a pilot, is on a tour of duty abroad with the French military. At school, Damien is bullied by Thomas, who lives in the farming community up in the mountains. The boys find themselves living together when Marianne invites Thomas to come and stay with them while his mother is ill in hospital. Damien must learn to live with the boy who terrorized him.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes73%
Metacritic63/100
Google Users77%
Director: André TéchinéGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In a rural French setting, two teenage boys, Damien and Thomas, develop a volatile and complex relationship. Initially antagonizing each other at school, their animosity gradually transforms into a confusing mix of attraction and rivalry. Their personal lives are further complicated by their mothers' involvement and their own burgeoning sexual identities.

Critical Reception

Being 17 was generally well-received by critics for its sensitive portrayal of adolescent turmoil and burgeoning sexuality. The film was praised for its naturalistic performances and Téchiné's nuanced direction, though some found the plot occasionally meandering. Audiences appreciated its honest exploration of complex emotions and relationships.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic depiction of teenage angst and sexual awakening.

  • Noted for strong performances from its young cast.

  • Appreciated for André Téchiné's mature and understated direction.

Google audience: Google users largely approved of the film, highlighting its realistic portrayal of complex teenage relationships and emotional development. Many found the performances compelling and the story thought-provoking, though some felt it could be slow-paced at times.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film at the César Awards.

Fun Fact

The screenplay was co-written by Céline Sciamma, the acclaimed director of 'Portrait of a Lady on Fire' and 'Girlhood'.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Reno

Reno

**Rivalry, that's where sometimes it all begins.** I don't know why this film has not been watched by many. This is a good film, a good French gay film. Like many reviewers had already mentioned, this is not your typical gay theme. It wo...