Stalked At 17

Stalked At 17 is a suspenseful and thrilling Lifetime movie released in 2012, directed by Doug Campbell. This captivating drama explores some of the terrifying realities of a teenage relationship gone awry. The film features performances from talented actors: Taylor Spreitler, Charles Hittinger, and Amy Pietz.

The film centers around the character of Angela Curson, a freshly turned seventeen-year-old, portrayed compellingly by Taylor Spreitler. Angela is a high school student who is grappling with the initial stages of youthful love. She falls for Chad, a charming and seemingly flawless older classmate, and perceives him as the structure of solidity and refuge she needs - far from the instability of her family's financial problems. Chad, played by Charles Hittinger, is a charismatic but enigmatic character that quickly mesmerizes the young, impressionable Angela.

Soon enough, Angela discovers that she's pregnant, and she's rushed into adulthood far too early. Unexperienced and under support from her family, Angela decides for a shotgun wedding at Chad's insistence. Though he presents himself amiable and caring, Chad's true colors began to surface after their rushed marriage – revealing a manipulative, controlling, and abusive personality. He becomes obsessed with Angela, wanting to exert control over every aspect of her life.

Amy Pietz stars as Angela's concerned mother who is initially against the relationship due to Chad’s age. She’s distraught when Angela announces her pregnancy and their plans to get married so young. However, even though she has her reservations, she promises to support her daughter through the pregnancy, trying to guide her through the challenging and complex path she’s chosen.

As Chad's extremely possessive behavior intensifies, Angela's life takes a darker path – Secrets unravel, hidden agendas surface, and the love she thought Chad held for her takes the form of dangerous obsession. Suddenly, her teenage dream morphs into a nightmare that she can't seem to awaken from, and her efforts to separate herself from the toxic relationship result in a twisted game of cat-and-mouse, dousing the viewer’s experience with high stakes suspense and intrigue.

Director Doug Campbell masterfully crescendos the tension throughout the movie, keeping the audience at the edge of their seats with a well-established build-up throughout. The haunting soundtrack also plays a critical role in accentuating the film's overall sense of dread. The audience can feel the suspense and terror that Angela experiences, thanks to the brilliant direction and score.

While on the surface, "Stalked At 17" might seem like an intense thriller focusing on teenage obsessive love, it addresses grave concerns like domestic violence, stalking, manipulation, and the alarming vulnerability of young women in our society. The film unambiguously emphasizes the violent cyclic nature of abusive relationships and the severe mental damage to its victims.

Taylor Spreitler, with her absorbing portrayal of Angela, manages to shine through the increasing darkness of the narrative. Her performance vividly captures the emotional depth of her character – a young girl on the cusp of womanhood, thrown into a dangerous situation she neither asked for nor can escape. Charles Hittinger, as Chad, delivers an astounding performance – transforming from a charming heartthrob into a chillingly unsettling antagonist. Amy Pietz, as Angela’s nurturing mother, convincingly embodies her character's frustration, desperation, regret, and concern.

Despite the heavy themes it explores, “Stalked At 17” provides a strong message about recognizing, confronting, and seeking help against obsessive and toxic behavior in relationships. It teaches young viewers a valuable lesson about trust, manipulation and the significance of standing up for one’s own safety and well-being. While the movie flawlessly captures the sinister atmosphere and suspense of a thriller, it also serves as a public service announcement about the dangers that lurk within relationships that seem perfect on the exterior.

In conclusion, "Stalked At 17" is a suspense-ridden, emotion-packed thriller that effectively raises awareness about the dark side of teen relationships, and the potential perils of obsession masked as love. With compelling performances, a gripping plot, and a pertinent message, this Lifetime movie is more than just your average thriller - it’s a cautionary tale of love, obsession, and survival.