

So Young
An Jing is a senior girl living in the small town of Songxi. During the process of independently writing a school novel entitled "Goodbye, Seventeen", she takes on the roles of An Na, An Qi, and An Jing, the protagonists of three separate stories. She travels through different spaces and times and meets different classmates, including the timid Straight-A-Student Han Yun, the warm senior Chu Yu, and the twin brothers Cheng Hao xuan and Cheng Hao yu, who have very different personalities. From strangers to friends, they find friendship in the intense high school life, and together they go through the bitterness of adolescence to finally welcome the transformation moment of 17 years old.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1980s Afghanistan, a young woman named Qodrat navigates the complexities of love and societal expectations during a time of political turmoil. She finds herself drawn to a charismatic young man, but their burgeoning romance is tested by the volatile environment around them. The film explores themes of youthful passion, resilience, and the search for connection amidst conflict.
Critical Reception
So Young received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its sensitive portrayal of young love in a war-torn nation and its authentic depiction of Afghan culture. The performances were also highlighted for their emotional depth and naturalism, though some noted the film's deliberate pacing.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its tender and poignant depiction of first love against a backdrop of conflict.
- Acclaimed for its authentic performances and sensitive cultural portrayal.
- Noted for its evocative atmosphere and subtle storytelling.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's emotional impact and its ability to capture the hopes and dreams of young people in challenging circumstances. Many appreciated the authentic setting and the relatable struggles of the characters.
Awards & Accolades
Selected for the Directors' Fortnight at the Cannes Film Festival; won awards at various international film festivals.
Fun Fact
Director Shahrbanoo Sadat drew inspiration from her own experiences and observations of youth in Afghanistan during the 1980s to shape the narrative and characters of 'So Young'.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources