For my coming of age film opening, I have decided to do something that is close to my heart and I truly care about. With careful time and consideration, this idea stuck as I feel many can relate to this struggle and not have to feel alone.
My major inspiration for this project was not only myself, but also the movie The Perks of Being a Wallflower, as the main character, Charlie, goes through expressing his anxiety of life and starting high school, and his coping with the loss of his friend. The reality of this movie and how hard it is being a teenager going through real world and emotional issues inspired me, showing me the value of the messages provided within coming of age movies. Teenagers deserve movies that they can relate to and help them feel that they can get through anything as long as they try.
My main character, Lizzie, is a high school Junior struggling with depression, as well as motivation for school and life as a whole. The most important year of high school took a turn for the worst. Missed assignments, untaken tests, failing grades. Having an argument with her dad, he expresses his deep concern about her grades and future in college. Through some odd supernatural occurrence, she runs across a mirror of her younger self. As little Lizzie asks about the future and how life feels being a teenager, she fears disappointing her younger self with the harsh reality of what is yet to come. Lying and telling her how fun and exciting her teenage years are, Lizzie feels deep regret. When her conversation with her younger self ends, a flip switches within her. She wants to make a change in herself for the better and make sure she ends up with the future she had always planned. Turning in a small assignment marks a small step for her improving, but a ring at the doorbell while she's eating dinner changes everything.
