We interview The Edge of Seventeen star Hailee Steinfeld and more!

Last Updated on July 31, 2021

Sometimes a teen flick manages to rise above the rest. And this is truly the case of THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN. Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, this flick is truly one of the best and most surprising comedies in years. The story of an awkward teen trying to get through the horrors of high school is funny, charming, sweet and perhaps a little dark. Featuring Hailee Steinfeld, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner, Hayden Szeto and Kyra Sedgwick, there is as much heart as humor in this inspired tale of teen angst. This is a joyful coming of age story that would make John Hughes proud.

Ever since TRUE GRIT, I've been a fan of Ms. Steinfeld. The young actress is just fantastic here, and we recently had the chance to discuss playing a teen living through a hellish high school experience. During our conversation, she talked about her own schooling, which was far different, and how she took on playing a character searching for acceptance. As well, the actress had high praise for director Kelly Fremon Craig. And frankly, Ms. Steinfeld continues to prove that she is one of the most exciting young talents working today.

When it comes to the supporting players, Haley Lu Richardson and Blake Jenner are equally solid. The two actors talked about playing what would normally be the mean characters in a typical teen flick. Thankfully, this isn't typical. And once again, Jenner and Richardson had high praise for Kelly Fremon Craig. The two were especially fun to chat with, and their on-screen chemisty was certianly obvious here. And when it comes to charmingly awkward leading men, you can't do much better than Hayden Szeto. The actor talked about working with such impressive talent, and finding that special something while working with Hailee. While he may not have a ton of credits to his name, I wouldn't be surprised to see Hayden working more and more.

And finally, we sat down with one of my favorites, the lovely Kyra Sedgwick. After I told her about my love for SINGLES, she talked about playing a character like that, and now taking on a very flawed mom. She discussed playing an adult in a teen comedy that isn't just black and white, one that just may not understand her daughter. But much like Richardson and Jenner, she isn't simply the rude and lame character who doesn't care. Kyra is really marvelous here, and it is always great to see her take on comedic material.

THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN is absolutely delightful. If are looking for something truly special, this is a film that will surprise the hell out of you. Look for it this weekend at a theater near you.