This is a compelling drama centered on six students and one teacher at a typical American high school. A student returns to classes after several weeks spent in a mental health facility (played by Quinn Shephard). While some classmates treat her poorly, a new drama instructor recognizes her maturity and offers assistance (Chris Messina), which upsets the school’s aggressive cheerleader (Nadia Alexander). “Blame” (2017) was directed by Shephard herself, who was just 20 years old at the time of filming—a process that took place over 19 days in July 2015. Although some have dismissed it as a gritty version of a "Lifetime" movie, its artistic qualities and dramatic impact elevate it alongside well-regarded films like "Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” "Footloose,” "Clueless,” "The Virgin Suicides," "The Rage: Carrie 2," and even the low-budget “Love Everlasting” (2016). Despite some of those titles incorporating humor or horror elements, they are all strong dramas that explore the highs and lows of high school life. The story includes bullying, a supportive teacher, parents who are either absent or abusive, a spiteful rival, teenage sexual activity, questionable behavior by people in positions of power, resistance to bullies, false accusations, and the possibility of forgiveness. The music is also noteworthy, featuring songs like “Pretty Face” and “The Lion” by OH CHILD, among others. Claims that one character is guilty of pedophilia demonstrate a misunderstanding of the term, which refers to sexual attraction to children under 11 years old. Hebephilia involves attraction to minors between 11 and 14, while ephebephilia concerns attraction to fully developed teens aged 15-19. While his actions as an authority figure are certainly irresponsible, he cannot be considered a pedophile. This extends beyond a typical psychological coming-of-age story because the teacher is a significant character. He’s in his late thirties or early forties and experiencing an early midlife crisis. Though he struggles to deny his feelings toward someone, he must look inward and outward to make sound choices about his life and its direction. The conclusion could have been stronger and more straightforward; I suspect Shephard was running out of both money and time, which is why she ended it so ambiguously. However, upon further thought, the necessary elements are present for viewers to interpret what happened and what might occur next. The film’s length is 1 hour and 40 minutes, and it was filmed in Metuchen, New Jersey—Shephard's hometown and former high school—which is located 35 miles southwest of Manhattan. GRADE: A-

Source on TMDB