"16 ans" combines the classic story of Romeo & Juliet with issues of racism, religion and also upbringing of children. Eventhough some elements of the story are interesting (e.g. The brother of the main character who was falsely accused of theft), the main story line seemed sort of empty or shallow, for the romantic relationship of Leo and Nora could have been explored deeper (I must admit that at times I just didn't belive their strong connection). First half of the movie is slow-paced, predectible and I would say a bit emotionless, on the other hand the final chapter was unexpected and quite shocking. It is definitely not a ground-breaking picture, but it is an interesting modern take on the story of Romeo & Juliet.
2 Reviews
Why ruin a good story...
christellecellier19 November 2023
Warning: Spoilers
With such a terrible ending ? I'm all for a bit of drama but this was too much.
There is a lot of tension throughout the film and the love story, which should be the key element, feels under developed. It is hard to believe the two teenagers are in love. Not much chemistry between them and why make love for the first time in a basement when everybody knows it's where girls get raped in bad neighborhoods? Why miss the opportunity for sensuality? Everything happens too fast and everybody seems to lose their heads at every turn. The boy's father loses his job, the girl's brother gets fired over nothing, the girl's friend betrays her. It all escalates and you are left with nothing much since the film's love scenes must have lasted 5 minutes.
There is a lot of tension throughout the film and the love story, which should be the key element, feels under developed. It is hard to believe the two teenagers are in love. Not much chemistry between them and why make love for the first time in a basement when everybody knows it's where girls get raped in bad neighborhoods? Why miss the opportunity for sensuality? Everything happens too fast and everybody seems to lose their heads at every turn. The boy's father loses his job, the girl's brother gets fired over nothing, the girl's friend betrays her. It all escalates and you are left with nothing much since the film's love scenes must have lasted 5 minutes.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
