A Fresh Look at Coming-of-Age Challenges

Read Time:3 Minute, 32 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Edge of Everything
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Sophia Sabella, Pablo Feldman
Writer(s): Sophia Sabella, Pablo Feldman
Cast: Sierra McCormick, Jason Butler Harner, Ryan Simpkins, Emily Robinson, Dominique Gayle, Nadezhda Amé, Drew Scheid, Anthony Del Negro, Mike Manning
Where To Watch: premiered at the 2024 Santa Barbara International Film Festival, coming to VOD June 7, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: EDGE OF EVERYTHING plunges us into the heart of teenage turmoil, with Sierra McCormick steering the ship as Abby, a character whose journey through grief and self-discovery is as tumultuous and equally enlightening as she travels through her journey. The suburban world is our backdrop, with its lawns and secrets inside every conversation, and it sets the stage for this gripping saga of adolescence. It’s a story oscillating between the raw and the real, peppered with moments of genuine emotion and unmistakable courage.

With her standout defiant attitude, Abby is the perfect storm of chaos and resilience. Jason Butler Harner (David) and Sabina Friedman-Seitz (Leslie,) as Abby’s father and his partner, respectively, navigate the treacherous waters of family dynamics, adding layers to the narrative. Their interactions offer a window into the complexities of blending families amidst grief, showcasing a rich tapestry of human emotions.

Enter Caroline, portrayed by Ryan Simpkins, Abby’s catalyst for adventure and, along with it, misadventure. This friendship, teeming with excitement and danger, serves as a crucible for Abby’s transformation, challenging her perceptions and pushing her limits. It’s a testament to the power of relationships in shaping our paths, especially during the fragile years of youth.

The film occasionally stumbles, mainly when the drama is laid on so thick, which might overshadow the subtler shades of its themes. Still, the standout performances, especially McCormick’s authentic and emotionally charged portrayal of Abby, anchor EDGE OF EVERYTHING in a place of relatable truth.

Directors Sophia Sabella and Pablo Feldman carve out a niche with this directorial endeavor. They tackle the intricacies of teenage life and familial tension with a cautious hand, supported by cinematography that captures the essence of Abby’s internal struggle against the backdrop of her external world.

EDGE OF EVERYTHING breaks from the pack by embracing the messiness of growing up without offering cookie-cutter solutions. It delves into the complexities of adolescence with a reflective gaze, urging viewers to reflect on the impact of pivotal life moments on personal growth. Sometimes, life needs to be seen as it is; too often, we want everything tied up nicely in our media, and that’s just not how the world works. The film’s resolution, a nuanced hint at what’s to come, does give us a sense of realism, a rare feat in storytelling.

EDGE OF EVERYTHING is an invitation to explore adolescence’s turbulent yet transformative period. It strikes a delicate balance between the struggle for independence and the quest for identity, reminding us of the enduring power of resilience and hope in the face of life’s inevitable upheavals. With its blend of drama, emotion, and pivotal life lessons, this film is a poignant reminder that the journey to find oneself can be as challenging as rewarding. It’s so important for films like this just flat-out to be told.

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[photo courtesy of LIGHTYEAR ENTERTAINMENT]

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