Coming Soon

Coming Soon is a compelling coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Colette Burson, released in 1999. The film features a notable ensemble cast that includes Bonnie Root, Gaby Hoffmann, and Tricia Vessey, who depict upper-class New York teenagers coming to grips with their womanhood, existing perceptions of sexuality, and ultimately owning their pleasure and identity.

The central plot of Coming Soon revolves around three lifelong friends, Stream Hodsell (Bonnie Root), Jenny Simon (Gaby Hoffmann), and Nell Kellner (Tricia Vessey). These young women, navigating the cusp of adulthood, attend an elite Manhattan prep school while also grappling with the demands of societal expectations around sex and the untidy realities of young love.

Bonnie Root, as Stream, the rational and passionate protagonist, flawlessly delivers her character's narrative, lighting up the screen with humor and sincerity. The movie delves into the trials and tribulations of Stream's high school life, cleverly balanced between her studies, romances, friendships, and family dramas. As the story unfolds, she finds herself on a journey, confronting the paradoxes of teen romance, the complexity of sexual pleasure, and most importantly, the realization of self-worth.

Gaby Hoffmann shines in her role as Jenny Simon, the open-minded and honest best friend, who provides both comic relief and thought-provoking insights. She challenges the conventional and venture boldly into topics that are often considered taboo.

Tricia Vessey plays Nell Kellner, the quieter friend of the trio who has her unique arc in the film. She, like her two friends, struggles with her personal challenges, which ultimately contributes to the larger narrative of self-discovery.

A significant part of Coming Soon focuses on the threesome's mission to break the taboos around female sexuality. Stream, upon realizing that none of their educational institutions or romantic relationships have helped them navigate their pleasure, makes it her goal to achieve an orgasm. How she and her friends set out to accomplish this, the resulting comedy, the ensuing mistakes, and the significant discoveries form the backbone of this story.

Threaded with humor, wit, heart-warming friendships, and startlingly relatable moments, Coming Soon narrates an impactful, realistic tale of navigating sexual identities within the world full of misconceptions. The emphasis laid on sexual equality and the conversations around female pleasure, topics that remain underrepresented even today, make this film impactful and ahead of its time.

The cinematography is in perfect sync with the film's youthful and energetic vibe, depicting the glitzy, high-society bubble of the Upper East Side and the stimulating city life in New York. The upbeat soundtrack, comprised of contemporary pop, punk rock, and jazz, reflects and amplifies the narrative's multiple moods and transitions.

The movie's charm lies in its light-hearted tone and comedic elements, masterfully masking the meaningful messages. The dialogue, timely humor, and the accurate portrayal of teenage life contribute to its authenticity.

The supporting cast, including stars like Ryan Reynolds and Mia Farrow, complements the trio's performances, enhancing the narrative's suspense and depth.

Coming Soon is an influential piece in early 21st-century cinema, boldly confronting society's double standards and engaging in an open dialogue about the sexual expectations imposed on young women. With its talented cast, profound theme, and amusing storytelling, it manages to break barriers, delivering a watch that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In summary, Coming Soon is a poignant, funny, and brutally honest portrayal of the trials, tribulations, confusion, and clarity that encapsulate the journey from adolescence to womanhood. A unique commentary on teen sexuality, it doesn't shy away from bold discussions, unapologetically defining a generation of young women daring to prioritize themselves and their pleasure.