American Teen

American Teen

Year: 2008

Runtime: 95 min

Language: English

Director: Nanette Burstein

Documentary

In a typical Indiana town, five high school seniors experience the complexities of adolescence as they face social pressures and personal challenges. A popular athlete, a seemingly perfect student, a creative loner, and an intelligent observer all grapple with insecurities, budding romances, and the anxieties surrounding their post-graduation plans. The film offers a glimpse into their lives, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the transition into adulthood.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – American Teen (2008)

Trace every key event in American Teen (2008) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Introduction to the Four Teens

The film opens by introducing four central characters: the jock, the popular girl, the artsy girl, and the geek. Each of them represents a different facet of high school life in a small Indiana town, setting the stage for their intertwining narratives throughout their senior year.

Indiana
2

Hannah's Aspirations

We learn about Hannah Bailey, an intelligent misfit with dreams of moving to California after graduation. Her unique position as a liberal atheist in a conservative environment highlights her struggles with identity and belonging.

Indiana
3

Colin's Pressure

Colin Clemens, a standout basketball player, feels an immense weight on his shoulders. He aims to excel in sports to secure a college scholarship, which leads him to experience the pressures of living up to his family's and community's expectations.

High School Gymnasium
4

Jake's Journey to Confidence

Jake Tusing, the self-identified nerd, grapples with his shyness in social situations. Determined to change, he sets a resolution to find a girlfriend during his senior year, marking a proactive step towards overcoming his insecurities.

High School
5

Megan's Authority Challenged

Megan Krizmanich, Vice President of the student council, faces challenges to her authority. Despite her popularity and intelligence, she learns that power comes with its own set of complexities and risks, leaving her anxious about what lies ahead.

High School
6

Mitch's Social Dilemma

Mitch Reinholdt, the charismatic jock, makes a bold choice by dating Hannah instead of conforming to his friends' expectations. This decision not only puts his social standing at risk but also helps him explore new aspects of his personality.

High School
7

First Loves

As the year progresses, the teens experience their first loves and romantic entanglements. This phase introduces new emotions and complications, enriching their understanding of relationships and personal connections.

Various
8

Heartbreaks and Insecurities

The realities of heartbreak force the characters to confront their insecurities. Each teen faces unique challenges that test their resilience and self-worth, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.

High School
9

Decision-Making for the Future

As graduation approaches, the characters wrestle with crucial decisions that will shape their futures. The pressure to perform academically, choose a college, and ascertain personal aspirations creates a pivotal moment in their lives.

High School
10

Self-Discovery Journey

Throughout the documentaries, the quartet embarks on a journey of self-discovery. They navigate the trials and tribulations of adolescence, learning more about who they are and who they want to become.

During Senior Year Indiana
11

Facing the Future

As the film nears its conclusion, the characters reflect on their high school experiences and what lies ahead for them. The blend of excitement and trepidation showcases the bittersweet nature of leaving behind the familiar.

End of Senior Year Graduation Ceremonies
12

Conclusion of the Documented Year

The documentary wraps up by encapsulating the shared experiences of the teens. Their individual and collective growth signifies the bridge from adolescence to adulthood, chronicling a significant chapter in their lives.

Indiana

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 01:21

Unlock the Full Story of American Teen

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American Teen Summary

Read a complete plot summary of American Teen, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

American Teen Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in American Teen

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape American Teen. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in American Teen

More About American Teen

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More About American Teen

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