Teen Lust

Teen Lust is a 2014 American-Canadian comedy film that takes a unique and rather hilarious approach to teen sexuality, adolescence, and rites of passage. This daring-yet-funny presentation of teenage life offers an array of comedic characters, led by the performances of Jesse Carere (known from the series, 'Finding Carter'), Daryl Sabara (from 'Spy Kids'), and Annie Clark (known as St. Vincent in her music career).

The film primarily centers around the character of Neil, played with an admirable dose of nerdy naivety by Jesse Carere. Neil is your typical high schooler with the expected hormonal inclinations of a teenage boy. There's a twist, though. He, along with his family, are members of a quaint but strange suburban community that happens to be a front for a virgin-sacrificing satanic cult. Upon learning that he, as the eldest virgin, is the next sacrificial lamb, Neil finds himself caught in the throes of a nerve-wracking mission - to lose his virginity and save himself from being sacrificed.

His best friend, Matt, played by Daryl Sabara, brings his own quirks to the story. Sabara sprinkles some humor into the movie with his overzealous yet sometimes misplaced attempts to help Neil. The duo embarks on a hilarious journey to foil the cult's plans. From awkward attempts to initiate romantic encounters, dealing with high school bullies to navigating through the peculiarities of their town, Neil and Matt’s many escapades form the backbone of this eccentric comedy.

Annie Clark, famous as a musician under the alias St. Vincent, stands out as Denise, the cool, no-nonsense girl who becomes an unwitting accomplice in the boys' desperate quest. Her seemingly tough exterior belies a compassionate character who provides a touch of grounding to the high-stakes chaos that makes up most of the narrative.

The film, directed by Blaine Thurier and penned by Thurier and Jason Stone, ventures into the realm of dark humor with the audacious concept of a virgin-sacrificing satanic cult. The story is primarily a raucous romp through teen angst and sexual awakening, but it also offers unique elements of suspense and horror, providing a fresh take on the tried-and-true high-school coming-of-age genre. Moreover, the movie also satirizes religious extremism with a simmering undercurrent of commentary about the dangers of blind faith and conformity.

Viewers may be reminded of cinematic classics like American Pie and Superbad from the essence of the bumbling antics and friendship dynamics within Teen Lust. Yet, the film elevates these trodden themes with the comedic morbidity of a satanic cult, providing a unique charm of its own.

The performances of Carere, Sabara, and Clark weave together seamlessly, with each actor providing a distinct flavor to their characters. The cast's chemistry is palpable, allowing the audience to become thoroughly invested in the story. In addition, a special mention goes to Jon Dore, Emmanuelle Vaugier, and Cary Elwes who brilliantly portray the eccentric adult characters, enhancing the surreal yet entertaining universe of Teen Lust.

Set within the charming aesthetics of suburban America, the movie juxtaposes the picture-perfect backdrop with the absurdity of what lies unseen. The film's lively soundtrack further conveys the youthful energy and urgency that permeate the plot. Using sharp humor, surprising twists, and a unique blend of genres, Teen Lust creates a memorable cinematic experience.

Teen Lust is a lighthearted and at times, a decidedly dark comedy that succeeds in making audiences laugh, cringe, and cheer for its lovable protagonists. Those seeking a unique blend of teen comedy and cult-themed dark humor will find this movie a hysterical and unconventional ride.