"Thirteen" & Angry

We've had this film since it first came out on DVD, but until now, had not taken the time to give it a go. It did not sound like a "good times" flick, so the right frame of mind was necessary. Good thing I was in that "zone" today. What brought me to it to begin with, was Evan Rachel Wood. I found her work on Once and Again extremely promising. Technically, the film was great, and the acting was flawless. Apparently it did its job, cuz I finished the film w/ a huff. I weep for the future. I have to believe that this behavior is not uncommon in today's youth, and I have seen first hand (in malls, restaurants, movie theatres, etc.) that the behavior of Holly Hunter's character is oh-so painfully far away from fiction. Parents today really need a reality check. Of course there are those that act like parent's and not like best friends. There are also those that are able to find a happy medium. They are well liked by their children, but are still plainly in charge. I cannot even begin to count the # of times I wanted to yell @ Holly Hunter. How many times before you put your foot down?! How many incidents before you storm into your child's room, in your house, where you pay the bills, and take a long hard look at those hidden secrets? She wasted so many chances to do her job. To quote one of my favorite lines from Goldie Hawn's Deceived, "For Chrissake, isn't anyone in charge around here?!" Although this is a clear depiction of "the parent is at fault", I did not feel a great deal of sympathy for Tracy (Wood). I am not sure why. I guess I see issues and characters like this, and review my own preteen/teen years. Admittedly, it may be different for young girls, but I never found myself going ridiculously out of my way to be liked/accepted. I did the usual, but it never went as far as drugs/alcohol/sex/neurosis. I definitely agree that it is nurture in this instance, but you know what? I also believe in free will. I went through hell in high school, and I think I turned out ok (no nasty comments from the peanut gallery). The film succeeded because it pushed all the right buttons, but I would not consider it a "great day @ the movies". This film should be shown to all parents, right before their children reach this crazy age. Better yet, they should be forced to review it before they even consider the possibility of conceiving a child. Challenges abound, folks. If you are not up for a run through the mud, think about getting a good, time-consuming hobby. Save the parenting for the parents, not the "best buds".