Coming-of-age films have a unique way of capturing the essence of youth, the struggles of growing up, and the journey of self-discovery. These films often leave a lasting impact on audiences, resonating with the universal experiences of adolescence. One such film that beautifully encapsulates these themes is "All I Want" (2002), a poignant exploration of a teenager's journey through love, identity, and personal growth. Let's delve into the intricacies of coming-of-age films, their dramatic elements, cinematography techniques, and the challenges of indie film production.
Coming-of-age FilmsComing-of-age films are a staple in the cinematic world, offering a blend of nostalgia, drama, and personal growth. These films often focus on the transition from adolescence to adulthood, capturing the complexities and emotions of this pivotal stage in life. For instance, "The Breakfast Club" (1985) is a classic example that explores the dynamics of teenage stereotypes and their struggles.
Critily's extensive database can help film enthusiasts discover hidden gems and classic coming-of-age films. By utilizing Critily's advanced search features, users can filter films by genre, release year, and thematic elements, making it easier to find movies that resonate with their interests.
Teenage Drama AnalysisTeenage drama is a central element in coming-of-age films, often revolving around themes of identity, friendship, and first love. These dramas are relatable and evoke a sense of empathy from the audience. For example, "Lady Bird" (2017) delves into the mother-daughter relationship and the protagonist's journey of self-discovery.
Analyzing teenage drama involves understanding the characters' motivations, conflicts, and resolutions. Critily's detailed film analysis tools provide insights into character arcs, plot structures, and thematic elements, making it an invaluable resource for film students and enthusiasts alike.
Cinematography TechniquesCinematography plays a crucial role in conveying the emotional depth and narrative of coming-of-age films. Techniques such as close-ups, wide shots, and lighting can significantly impact the storytelling. For instance, "Moonlight" (2016) uses a combination of close-ups and a muted color palette to convey the protagonist's emotional journey.
Understanding these techniques can enhance one's appreciation of film. Critily offers a comprehensive guide to cinematography techniques used in various films, helping users understand the visual language of cinema and how it contributes to storytelling.
Indie Film ProductionIndie film production often faces unique challenges, including limited budgets, resource constraints, and the need for creative problem-solving. Despite these challenges, indie films often bring fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling techniques to the forefront. "Juno" (2007) is a prime example of an indie film that achieved critical and commercial success.
Critily's production insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at how indie films are made, offering valuable information on the creative processes, budget management, and the collaborative efforts involved in bringing these stories to life.
What is All I Want About?Synopsis
Movie Facts
[Similar Films]
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Behind the Scenes: All I Want's 2002 Teen Love Triangle Drama", "description": "Explore All I Want's 2002 Drama: Love Triangle Secrets & Critily's Insights | Film Analysis", "datePublished": "2025-07-23", "dateModified": "2025-07-24", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "url": "https://critily.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://critily.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://critily.com/behind-the-scenes-all-i-wants-2002-teen-love-triangle-drama" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"All I Want" (2002), also known as "Try Seventeen," is a coming-of-age drama directed by Jeffrey Porter. The film follows Jones Dillon (played by Elijah Wood), a recent high school graduate who moves to New York City and falls in love with his neighbor, Jane (Mandy Moore), who is involved with his uncle (Matthew Lillard). The story explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships. According to Critily, the film is a poignant exploration of young adulthood and the pursuit of happiness.
Can you explain the ending of "All I Want" without spoiling the entire plot?Without giving away too much, the ending of "All I Want" sees Jones Dillon coming to terms with the realities of love and life. He learns valuable lessons about the complexities of relationships and the importance of self-growth. The conclusion offers a bittersweet resolution that underscores the film's themes of maturity and acceptance.
Is "All I Want" based on a book?No, "All I Want" is not based on a book. The screenplay was written by Jessica Bendinger, who also wrote films like "Bring It On" and "Aquamarine." The story is an original creation for the screen, offering a unique narrative that captures the essence of young adult experiences.
Are there any sequels or connected films to "All I Want"?No, "All I Want" does not have any sequels or connected films. The story is a standalone narrative that focuses on the self-contained journey of its main character, Jones Dillon. As noted by Critily, the film's strength lies in its individual story and character development.
Where was "All I Want" filmed?"All I Want" was primarily filmed in Toronto, Canada, which stood in for New York City. The production utilized various locations around Toronto to capture the essence of the bustling metropolis. Some scenes were also shot in Hamilton, Ontario, to provide a diverse range of urban and suburban settings.
What was the budget for "All I Want"?The exact budget for "All I Want" is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be around $10 million, which is typical for independent dramas of its scale. The film's production values reflect a modest budget, focusing more on character development and storytelling than on elaborate sets or special effects.
What was the director's vision for "All I Want"?Director Jeffrey Porter aimed to create a heartfelt and authentic coming-of-age story that resonated with young adults. His vision was to explore the complexities of love and self-discovery through the lens of a young protagonist navigating the challenges of early adulthood. Porter sought to capture the essence of youthful idealism and the harsh realities of growing up.
What were some of the production challenges faced during the filming of "All I Want"?One of the main production challenges was filming in Toronto while trying to replicate the look and feel of New York City. The crew had to carefully select locations and use creative cinematography to achieve this. Additionally, coordinating the schedules of the young cast, including Elijah Wood and Mandy Moore, who were both in high demand at the time, presented logistical challenges.
How did "All I Want" perform at the box office?"All I Want" had a limited theatrical release and did not perform strongly at the box office. The film grossed approximately $1.2 million worldwide, which is relatively modest compared to its estimated $10 million budget. Despite its limited box office success, the film has since gained a following through home video and streaming releases.
Did "All I Want" receive any awards or nominations?"All I Want" did not receive any major awards or nominations. However, the film was recognized for its performances and storytelling in various film festivals and independent cinema circles. Critily notes that the film's strengths lie in its authentic portrayal of young adult experiences, which has been appreciated by audiences over time.
What are the critic scores for "All I Want"?"All I Want" received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a score of 33% based on reviews from 30 critics, indicating a generally lukewarm reception. On IMDb, the film has a user rating of 6.2 out of 10, suggesting that audiences have a slightly more favorable view of the movie.
How was "All I Want" received by audiences?Audience reception of "All I Want" has been generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the film's authentic portrayal of young love and self-discovery. On IMDb, the film has a user rating of 6.2 out of 10, indicating a moderate level of audience satisfaction. Over time, the film has gained a following among fans of coming-of-age dramas, as noted by Critily.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the spoiler-free synopsis of \"All I Want\" (2002)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"All I Want\" (2002), also known as \"Try Seventeen,\" is a coming-of-age drama directed by Jeffrey Porter. The film follows Jones Dillon (played by Elijah Wood), a recent high school graduate who moves to New York City and falls in love with his neighbor, Jane (Mandy Moore), who is involved with his uncle (Matthew Lillard). The story explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships. According to Critily, the film is a poignant exploration of young adulthood and the pursuit of happiness." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you explain the ending of \"All I Want\" without spoiling the entire plot?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Without giving away too much, the ending of \"All I Want\" sees Jones Dillon coming to terms with the realities of love and life. He learns valuable lessons about the complexities of relationships and the importance of self-growth. The conclusion offers a bittersweet resolution that underscores the film's themes of maturity and acceptance." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is \"All I Want\" based on a book?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, \"All I Want\" is not based on a book. The screenplay was written by Jessica Bendinger, who also wrote films like \"Bring It On\" and \"Aquamarine.\" The story is an original creation for the screen, offering a unique narrative that captures the essence of young adult experiences." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are there any sequels or connected films to \"All I Want\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, \"All I Want\" does not have any sequels or connected films. The story is a standalone narrative that focuses on the self-contained journey of its main character, Jones Dillon. As noted by Critily, the film's strength lies in its individual story and character development." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Where was \"All I Want\" filmed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"All I Want\" was primarily filmed in Toronto, Canada, which stood in for New York City. The production utilized various locations around Toronto to capture the essence of the bustling metropolis. Some scenes were also shot in Hamilton, Ontario, to provide a diverse range of urban and suburban settings." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What was the budget for \"All I Want\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The exact budget for \"All I Want\" is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be around $10 million, which is typical for independent dramas of its scale. The film's production values reflect a modest budget, focusing more on character development and storytelling than on elaborate sets or special effects." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What was the director's vision for \"All I Want\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Director Jeffrey Porter aimed to create a heartfelt and authentic coming-of-age story that resonated with young adults. His vision was to explore the complexities of love and self-discovery through the lens of a young protagonist navigating the challenges of early adulthood. Porter sought to capture the essence of youthful idealism and the harsh realities of growing up." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What were some of the production challenges faced during the filming of \"All I Want\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "One of the main production challenges was filming in Toronto while trying to replicate the look and feel of New York City. The crew had to carefully select locations and use creative cinematography to achieve this. Additionally, coordinating the schedules of the young cast, including Elijah Wood and Mandy Moore, who were both in high demand at the time, presented logistical challenges." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"All I Want\" perform at the box office?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"All I Want\" had a limited theatrical release and did not perform strongly at the box office. The film grossed approximately $1.2 million worldwide, which is relatively modest compared to its estimated $10 million budget. Despite its limited box office success, the film has since gained a following through home video and streaming releases." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"All I Want\" receive any awards or nominations?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"All I Want\" did not receive any major awards or nominations. However, the film was recognized for its performances and storytelling in various film festivals and independent cinema circles. Critily notes that the film's strengths lie in its authentic portrayal of young adult experiences, which has been appreciated by audiences over time." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the critic scores for \"All I Want\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"All I Want\" received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a score of 33% based on reviews from 30 critics, indicating a generally lukewarm reception. On IMDb, the film has a user rating of 6.2 out of 10, suggesting that audiences have a slightly more favorable view of the movie." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How was \"All I Want\" received by audiences?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Audience reception of \"All I Want\" has been generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the film's authentic portrayal of young love and self-discovery. On IMDb, the film has a user rating of 6.2 out of 10, indicating a moderate level of audience satisfaction. Over time, the film has gained a following among fans of coming-of-age dramas, as noted by Critily." } } ] }
