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Title: one of the best of 2003
Review: THIRTEEN is a raw, uncompromising drama that ranks as one of the best of 2003. The energy in the quick, low budget, shoot comes through in the film.( On the commentary track, director/cowriter Catherine Hardwicke says Fox Searchlight didn't get involved until after the production was completed. )Tracy (Evan Rachel Wood, snubbed by Oscar) desperately wants to be accepted by Evie (cowriter Nikki Reed) , the coolest girl at school. Evie accepts Tracy and the two become friends, but Evie introduces Tracy to sex, drugs, and self-destructive behavior. Complicating matters is the fact that Evie has no home life and Tracy's mom (the excellent Holly Hunter) , a recovering addict, can't appreciate the seriousness of what's happening.THIRTEEN is a snapshot of modern American pre-teen life, and I came away from the film thinking about the importance of communication between parents and children. This is a film that families should watch together. Highly recommended.
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