The First Time (2012): Most Honest Teen Movie Ever

Eventually, I found my way again.

The First Time is a 2012 film about two teenagers who meet at a party one night. They discuss their hopes, dreams, and fears. Over the weekend, they continued to discuss the nature of intimacy and whether it’s the right track for them.

We all remember our teen years. Either you were part of the crowd, or you stuck to your pathway. The First Time is both honest about being a teenager and an educational film in encouraging viewers to make decisions that are right for them.

We’re introduced to Aubrey and Dave outside a hopping party. These characters are portrayed magnificently by Dylan O’Brien and Britt Robertson, who bring depth to their roles. Both feel pressured by the stereotypical teen norms, trying to break them or going along with the crowd.

O’Brien and Robertson’s dynamic is the film’s threshold. They briefly dated off-camera. I have seen a couple of films with Britt Robertson, and I like the way she plays her characters. Aubrey is quite intelligent, studies little facts, and has dreams. Despite her confidence, Audrey is unsure of herself, with Robertson adding a fast-paced tone.

O’Brien adds vulnerability that is not seen enough in teen boys. He has a lot of pressure. He’s someone who had to grow up faster, but feels stuck on making his own decisions.

I thought this film would take a Before Sunrise (1995) approach, focusing only on its main duo, but more characters become invested in the story, like friends, crushes, and (minorly) parents. Some credits include Victoria Justice, Craig Roberts, Joshua Malina, LaMarcus Tinker, James Frecheville, Christine Taylor, and the film debut of Halston Sage.

Victoria Justice has an excellent performance as Jane Harman. This film came out right when Victorious was ending. It’s a very different performance that I wish we could see more of from Justice.

Jonathan Kasdan centers the film on themes that remain relevant today. He experimented with several ideas throughout filming. He makes it fresh, with several surprises. His main goal was to make it personal.

The editing also works in funny moments. The dialogue is written well. It’s teen language, but a hint of adult growth. Dylan’s little sister, Stella (Maggie Elizabeth Jones), is wise beyond her years. I was laughing when she gave her brother a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down when he was on the phone.

This is the teen movie for those who felt left out. This film made me think back to my teen years. We all wish to time-travel back and change one thing, but how would that change impact your life? Doing theater is what got me through my teen years, and now, at 30, I am at my happiest.

Sex is a main theme in The First Time. The way the characters talk about intimacy is so complex, focusing on what they want and how they wish life could be. This is an educational film that encourages viewers to have sex when they are ready.

The First Time showcases sensual themes. Characters have an intimate moment, which was handled well by filmmakers, especially in a time before intimacy coordinators were available in films.

The teen years are so difficult. This is when we start thinking about dreams. You’re a young adult and starting to learn deeper conversations.

The First Time is the most honest teen movie ever. Don’t judge it because The First Time is not your typical teen movie. I almost passed on it, but as I have learned, there’s more to movies than you think.