Just caught the premier of "Twelve" today and left the theater shocked. Having never read or heard of the book before now, i entered the cinema knowing two things; first that it was directed by Joel Schumacher an astounding filmmaker, and second that because it was accepted into Sundance, it must have some exceptional parts. Needless to say, the film exceeded expectation and moved into the realm of surreal. Like every film at Sundance, the director said a few words before screening started. Now most people know Schumacher from his hits like, "Phantom of the Opera", "Phone Booth", or his flawed Batmans. However Ive been privileged to see his early work, which includes, "The Lost Boys", "Flatliners", and "8MM". Yet despite the high mark which his previous films set, "Twelve" pulls up to and even surpasses some. Chace Crawford was an inspiration in the lead role and though it was the first film Ive seen him in, i hope he continues a successful career. The other actors all give supreme performances, though my personal favorite in the film is one you might despise me for. Billy Magnussen as Claude, who carries out his character in magnificent form and had the role been given to anyone else, the movie wouldve been sorely injured. The insight into teenagers, especially the rich, stands unrivaled. Nick McDonell wrote true people, characters that are 3D and whom you can relate to. As a seventeen year old myself i am grateful for his gift to our generation. The five million dollar budget which this film was made on, and the twenty-three days in which it was shot, proves the genius of everyone working on it. And when the cast and crew stood on stage at the end to answer questions, i felt the need to clap till my hands bled. And to stress the point Joel made, there is a comedy in this film that supersedes anything youve seen before. But to truly appreciate every aspect and genre in it, you must be of an open mind, and willing to see even the gritty parts in teenagers.

Starring:

Chace Crawford, Emma Roberts and Rory Culkin

Genre:

Drama, Thriller