Being 17

Being 17, it is a story of young love, passion and the importance of family, as well as loss, pain and the search for self. The film offers a believably told and authentically acted tale of two teenage boys whose complicated relationship is an illustration of the adage "what goes around comes around". The narrative also focuses on their parents, who also have a difficult time in life, which makes the plot more varied. In addition, the film offers plenty of shots of the beautiful French countryside in different seasons, so it is also a feast for the eyes. (03.04.2020)

I like how the film is naturally approached, how there are no unnecessary prejudices, and how the creators don't try to glorify the theme as something absolutely essential. It is simply a story about two young people who find their way to each other, even though it is very complicated. You don't think of it at first, but it ends up being strongly believable. (24.03.2017)

Seeing Blue Is the Warmest Color and then stumbling upon this film the day after, is a crazy coincidence. There are countless comparisons, but I don't think that Being 17 could be considered a boy's version of the other film, as there are quite a few differences. I see the similarity in the filmmaking techniques, in the camera work, and the difference mainly in the development of the relationship depicted. The central couple threw themselves into their roles with real passion and I believed in them, not only their initial hatred but also the passion that accompanied their interactions and the amorous longing they developed over time. André Téchiné set the story in beautiful mountain scenery, which is not just a mere backdrop. He should be deeply complimented for having managed to make an extremely fresh film at such a blessed age, characterized by an almost perfect knowledge of the contemporary teenage world. (90%) (13.05.2020)