This film portrays the experiences of privileged adolescents attending a preparatory school located in New York City. The narrative centers on Cat, a 17-year-old played by Dominique Swain, as she navigates her desire for a boy’s affection, relationships with friends, and difficulties with her parents, all while confronting challenges related to her hidden background. It offers a glimpse into the lives of affluent young people in Manhattan and East Hampton during 1984. I was drawn to it initially because I thought it might be like “Dead Poets Society,” but for girls’ schools. However, it lacks that film's emotional depth and feels more monotonous than captivating, with an overemphasis on drug use, romantic problems, and even illegal activities. Certain aspects brought to mind "Swimming," which featured Lauren Ambrose and was released the previous year, though this one isn’t as enjoyable overall. It’s probably worth watching solely for Dominique Swain's performance; she was 19 when they filmed it. Brad Renfro, who played a male character, was 17 during production and bears a resemblance to a young Marlon Brando. Sadly, drug abuse negatively impacted his career, ultimately leading to his death from a heroin overdose eight years later. The movie’s length is approximately one hour and thirty-two minutes. Filming took place in November and December of 1999, primarily in Manhattan, with some scenes shot in Toronto (likely mostly interior shots and the East Hampton segment). GRADE: B-

Source on TMDB