Edge of Seventeen

8/10 - a small indie gay film that leaves quite the impression

"Edge.." takes on a huge challenge as it takes the audience on an compromised guided tour of homosexuality in bloom while maintaining its entertainment value. The film features some excellent acting by some very unfamiliar faces and strikes an appropriate balance between gay sex and gay love. Kudos.

The film is a coming-out story set in Sandusky, Ohio, in 1984. It moves a bit slowly, but it is nevertheless sweet. The characterizations and performances are genuine and provide sincere laughs and tears. The film is amazingly accurate in showing the whole gamut of coming out.

The talented cast is wonderful, and the story ultimately is a healing experience.

I honestly did not think I would like this movie. Something about the fact that it was based in the eighties made me a little edgy about seeing it. But I was actually pleasantly surprised.

Chris Stafford, who I would very much like to see in bigger roles, presented an incredible portrayal of a young man struggling with his sexuality in a very bias environment. Not only did I enjoy the way his character gradually came out of his shell and embraced this part about him that he had tried so hard to deny for so long but I was just so entranced and surprised by his performance throughout the film.

Anderson Gabrych as Rod was equally amazing. I was a little put off by him at first and I was extremely wary of that stereotypical gay he seemed to be at first introduction but I really enjoyed his performance, as well. And Tina Holmes was wonderful as Eric's best friend and her difficulty with the fact that the man she was in love with didn't love her that way was incredibly believable.

I enjoyed each actor's portrayal of their character and the flawless acting and the sexy (but tasteful) love scenes and just about everything about the film. The only thing I did not enjoy was the end. It felt awkward and cut short and if the director was aiming for a cliffhanger, he certainly succeeded - but a little too much was left unsaid for a completely successful closing.

Overall, the movie was one that I will watch many, many more times. It's an emotional, realistic insight into the struggles of coming out and embracing one's sexuality. Definitely worth the watch.

Anyone who grew up gay in the 70s and came out in the 80s can relate to some aspect of this wonderful film. The music, the clothes, and the look are perfectly recreated. The performances are honest, tender and intimate. The awkward conversations and situations only add to the realism. The complexity of Eric and Maggie's relationship is truthful and very emotional. Eric's internalized homophobia is something most of us go through...especially when we are not ready to "come out" to our parents and ourselves. I can recall dressing outrageously and experimenting with my hair to make a statement just as Eric does and then denying that I was gay.

Yes, some men are portrayed as "queenish" and "promiscuous", but that's because some real men are. QUEER AS FOLK should be this good.

Chris Stafford shines, Tina Holmes is incredible, Andersen Gabrych is seductive and Stephanie McVay is the mom we all wish we had. The fabulous Lea Delaria belting out "Blue Skies" is an added bonus. Looking forward to more greatness from the talents involved here.

A great gay companion piece to THE LAST AMERICAN VIRGIN.