The First Time

The First Time is a vibrant, youthful, and humorous coming-of-age film that was released in 1969, featuring the captivating performances of Jacqueline Bisset, Wes Stern, and Rickey Kelman. It has certainly stood the test of time, captivating the interest of audiences who appreciate films emanating from this respected era.

Directed by the accomplished filmmaker James Neilson, The First Time provides an evocative portrayal of teenage life during the late 1960s, intertwined with a nonchalant exploration of the timeless theme of young love. The film is an encapsulation of innocent teenage love, pranks, mischief, family life, and most notably, the impulsiveness of youth. The film evokes the nostalgia of the era, and the charm and naievity of teenhood, offering a memorable cinematic experience.

The film follows the life of three high-school friends navigating the throes of adolescence, discovering love, and defining their own identities. They are portrayed by Wes Stern, Rickey Kelman, and Wink Roberts. These three divergent characters - the prankster, the romantic, and the wholesome boy-next-door - comprise the film’s heart and soul. Their personalities and endeavours authentically represent the variety of the teenage experience.

Wes Stern embodies the role of Kenny, an insecure and love-stricken teenager, who has an uncanny ability to find himself in awkward situations. His character is relatable and adorably clumsy, making him one of the film's most beloved characters. Rickey Kelman, on the other hand, impeccably portrays the role of Mike, the jokester of the pack, who enjoys taking life lightly and often finds himself in amusing situations. Wink Roberts embraces the part of Tommy, the most grounded of the three friends, whose sincerity and seriousness provide a mature perspective midst all the misdemeanors.

The film's highlight is Jacqueline Bisset's portrayal of Anna, a sophisticated older woman who turns Kenny’s world upside down. Anna is portrayed as an independent working woman, a significant portrayal of the growing feminist movement of the sixties. Their unexpected encounter introduces a new dimension to the boys' experiences. Kenny’s wayward infatuation with her provides the emotionally charged, central plot of the film.

As the film unfolds, there is an authentic exploration of the boys’ initial encounters with love. The three lads take the plunge into the intriguing world of romance, juxtaposed with the challenges typical during these defining years - family dynamics, self-discovery, and the transition from naïveté to a broader worldview. The interactions among friends and exploring uncertain territories in their romantic lives, make the movie engaging and entertaining.

From a narrative perspective, The First Time explores familiar coming-of-age themes but does so with a unique charm reminiscent of the late 1960s era. It is a refreshingly honest depiction of the monumental changes brought about by adolescence. The characters wrestle with questions about true love, independence, and the struggle to fit into societal norms, making it a poignant recollection of adolescence.

The movie's charm lies within its authentic representation of first love and the open exploration of the turmoil and tumult of this time of life. It delivers a shared experience of confusions and changes while deftly capturing the humorous side of it all.

Neilson’s masterful direction and perfectly selected cast combine to produce a heartfelt, enduring film that still rings true today. The First Time may carry the air of a far simpler time, but its underlying themes are universal, making it relevant to audiences across generations. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and their interactions and dialogues are filled with realism and resonant charm.

Overall, The First Time emerges as a nuanced, comedic, and endearing portrayal of teenage life, adolescence, and love. It merges light-hearted entertainment with complexities of youth and growth. It is a celebration of the whimsicality and vulnerability of the teenage years. The film's earnestness and unwavering focus on authentic and empathetic characters contribute to its charm and longevity. For those looking for a time-travelling journey to the mood and charm of the sixties, The First Time is a must-watch.