Nostalgia’s Cinematic Charm

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MOVIE REVIEW
The First Time
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Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 1969, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): James Neilson
Writer(s): Jo Heims, Roger Smith, Bernard Bassey
Cast: Jacqueline Bisset, Wes Stern, Rickey Kelman, Sharon Acker, Cosette Lee, Gerard Parkes, Wink Roberts
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Embarking on a journey back to the spirited year of 1969, THE FIRST TIME unravels a youthful misadventure brimming with aged awkwardness that makes the film even more amusing than it was at the time. Our journey begins with three teens; their paths intertwine with the mysterious Anna, encapsulated with grace by Jacqueline Bisset. A missing passport, a misconception, and suddenly, our teenage trio believes Anna is involved in a centuries-old profession. With enthusiasm (and a dash of naiveté), they decide to aid her across the U.S. frontier, only to be met with unexpected lessons on growing up.

Sure, the theme is familiar, but this story has been told repeatedly in unique and funny ways. Under the direction of James Neilson and the crafted words of Jo Heims, this cinematic gem encapsulates the vintage charm reminiscent of the 60s TV sitcoms. But don't be fooled! Within its heartwarming laughter lies a deep dive into the rite of passage into adulthood and the antics that come with it. I can think of several other films from the '60s through today that attempt to tackle this topic, and what made this different was the charm it had for me. This had a different feel; it didn’t have the same “sleazy” feel that so many others like it do.

Enter Kenny, portrayed with a cocktail of charm and complexity by Wes Stern. Kenny weaves tales about his "encounters" at the iconic "Rosie's," setting the stage for a comedy of misunderstandings among his friends. These exploits, products of the trio's budding perceptions of manhood, promise a somewhat predictable yet enjoyable journey.

At its core, THE FIRST TIME captures the essence of those carefree summer adventures that define youth. From languid bike rides to introspective moments under the summer sun, the movie paints an evocative picture of the 60s teenage scene. And for those needing a touch of nostalgia, it's like leafing through a treasured photo album.

But as in any story, a twist awaits. The narrative detours into the realm of fantastical daydreams after Anna's (Jacqueline Bisset) introduction. Given the complexities surrounding Kenny and Anna's evolving dynamics, this paradigm shift creates the path for the rest of the film. I was impressed that even though the movie didn’t tackle the more profound and intimate themes, it didn’t go full teen comedy either. It felt like PORKY’S meets THE GRADUATE if they were PG-13.

The cinematography adds another layer to the narrative. From captivating close-ups to panoramic shots, it's a visual treat. The setting alone made the film's visuals powerful; with a beautiful mix of backgrounds, the focus remained on the story but gave it a great canvas.

THE FIRST TIME offers a fusion of youthful exuberance, humor, and the inevitable reality bites of maturing. It's a journey back to a time when innocence danced alongside budding passions. And while there's an occasional hiccup in its portrayal, especially concerning its female characters, the film remains a captivating snapshot of youthful vigor and vulnerability.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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