Queering Cinema: Remembering Queer Gem 'Edge of Seventeen'

American gay cinema is currently having a moment with the major releases of the rom-coms "Fire Island" and "Bros," both touting themselves among the first major studio releases that feature prominent gay storylines. And those looking for something similar might turn to the forgotten queer gem "Edge of Seventeen."

Released in 1998, the coming-of-age comedy was directed by David Moreton and stars Chris Stafford, Andersen Gabrych, Tina Holmes, Stephanie McVay and Lea DeLaria. It follows Eric Hunter (Stafford) during the summer before his senior year in high school in 1984. He lives in Sandusky, Ohio with his parents and brothers and takes up a summer job with his BFF Maggie (Holmes) in food services at a local amusement park where he meets Rod (Gabrych). After some flirting, a confused Eric starts to develop feelings for Rod, who opens up a new gay world for him.

Though "Edge of Seventeen" might seem like the kind of cliche coming out story modern gay cinema is trying to get away from, it's a well observed dramedy that still holds up and manages to bypass some of the annoying trappings queer audiences expect from '90s gay cinema. With great performances all around (shout out to Lea DeLaria as Eric's lesbian mentor and boss as well as Stephanie McVay as Eric's sensitive and concerned mother) and an amazing new-wave and synth pop soundtrack (Eurythmics, Bronchi Beat, Toni Basil, Thomson Twins), it's as shame "Edge of Seventeen" has gone on to become a bit lost over the last few decades.

If you're interested in watching, "Edge of Seventeen" is currently streaming on Netflix and Kanopy.