A film inspired by a gripping real-life tale has left Netflix viewers feeling ‘disturbed’ just a few days after its release.
Netflix has recently offered an array of engaging psychological dramas. From titles like You to Gypsy and The Weekend Away, users have had numerous options to binge-watch.
However, a particular film featuring a familiar actor from The Twilight Saga has unsettled viewers, despite not being labeled as a horror.
The narrative centers on 13-year-old Tracy in Los Angeles, taking inspiration from the 14-year-old co-writer’s life. The movie delves into themes of drug abuse, sex, self-harm, and crime.
Remarkably, the screenplay for this 2003 teen drama was crafted in only six days by director Catherine Hardwicke and the then-teenage Nikki Reed, known for playing Rosalie Hale in Twilight, which Hardwicke also directed.
In contrast to the supernatural realm of vampires, Reed’s semi-autobiographical script, featuring Holly Hunter and Evan Rachel Wood, offers a more unsettling experience. Fans note that Thirteen’s chilling nature lies in its realism.
For many viewers, the movie authentically captures the experience of being a young girl, with parents describing it as their ‘worst nightmare.’
On Reddit, a user shared: “I recently watched Thirteen on Netflix and haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. It’s possibly the darkest movie I’ve seen, despite not being labeled as horror, due to its intense nature.
“There are no supernatural elements, no jump scares. It’s just raw, spiraling human behavior, particularly from young girls trying to find their identity.”
The viewer noted that the protagonist’s physical appearance dramatically changes by the film’s conclusion.
“Initially, she’s a sweet, insecure girl. But by the end? Her appearance and body language transform completely.
“There’s a scene where she doesn’t even seem human anymore. Her pain and trauma manifest physically on her face. She seemed evil, even terrifying.”
The Redditor added: “Watching it is not easy. It’s painful but unforgettable. It highlights the fragile nature of adolescence.”
Others admitted they watched it thinking it was a ‘cute coming of age drama like Crossroads’ and confessed: “I was mistaken.”
A commenter praised the film but mentioned it was ‘too relatable’ to view again, particularly since they now have daughters.
“My friend watched this and immediately grounded his well-behaved 13-year-old daughter,” another shared.
The film’s plot has struck a chord with many, earning an impressive 81 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
“A critic described the film as ‘a searing time capsule of a place, and a timeless elegy for that messy period in girls’ lives that we’re all lucky if we make it out in one piece.'”
The trailer can be viewed below:
“Thirteen attempts to shock excessively… but remains a compelling look at the other side of the American dream,” remarked another critic.
Despite its initial controversy, the film garnered an Academy Award nomination for Holly Hunter for Best Supporting Actress, and Golden Globe nominations for both Hunter and Wood for their roles.
Reflecting on the film’s 20th anniversary in 2023, Reed spoke to Rolling Stone about co-writing the script as a teenager: “I was just a kid, and the world watched me grow through this film.”
“Writing the script wasn’t cathartic at the time. I didn’t realize there was anything to process while writing it.”
In a recent interview with The Provocateur, Reed shared insights into her ‘unconventional’ childhood and the impact of Thirteen.
“I moved out at 16, had to pay bills, and mature quickly, so I worked out of necessity and gained valuable life lessons,” she said.
“I don’t regret any work I did as it taught me about life. It was character-building, teaching me hard work and survival.”
“Thirteen altered my life significantly. Exposing my and my family’s life for public scrutiny was terrifying, and I was only 13. It affected my family in unforeseen ways.”
“Though it was based on my teenage experience, it was from a teenager’s perspective, meaning more sides remain untold.”
Regarding her relationship with Hardwicke, Reed noted the director’s influence on her life.
“Catherine is a powerhouse who doesn’t take no for an answer. In a male-dominated industry, she’s created her own opportunities.”
“What I admire most is Catherine’s dedication to helping young women chase their dreams, creating an unmistakable ripple effect.”
“Working with a female director early on set high standards, inspiring me to create, direct, and write, surrounded by strong women who defied gender bias.”
Thirteen is currently available for streaming on Netflix.