The First Time

The First Time is a charming teen romance that feels familiar, yet manages to invoke genuine laughter and awkward nostalgia. However, it stumbles on pacing and character depth, leaving some emotional moments feeling superficial.

High School Sparks Fly

Set in the backdrop of high school life, The First Time follows Dave Hodgman (Dylan O'Brien) as he navigates his feelings for Aubrey Miller (Britt Robertson). Their chance encounter at a party sparks an unexpected connection, leading to a weekend filled with awkward encounters and self-discovery. Both characters are coming of age in their ways, faced with the pressures of first love and the complexities of teenage relationships. The film captures the essence of high school romance, showcasing moments of both comedy and drama. However, the plot sometimes feels predictable and relies heavily on cliches typical of the genre.

Charming Yet Underdeveloped Cast

Dylan O'Brien and Britt Robertson bring an infectious charm to their roles, effectively capturing the excitement and nervousness of first love. O'Brien's portrayal of Dave is relatable, though at times, his character's lack of depth becomes apparent. Robertson's Aubrey shines, effortlessly blending vulnerability with confidence. Supporting characters like Simon (Craig Roberts) and Ronny (James Frecheville) add humor, but their arcs feel underdeveloped and can be easily forgotten. The film would have benefited from stronger character development to provide a more balanced ensemble.

Straightforward Direction

Jon Kasdan directs with a light touch, focusing on the youthful spirit of the story, yet the visual style doesn't stray far from the typical teen rom-com template. Shots are framed in a straightforward manner that reflects the simplicity of high school life, but this also means there's a lack of visual flair that could have elevated the narrative. The pacing varies, with some scenes dragging on, particularly in the third act, where the film struggles to maintain momentum. A more dynamic approach to direction could have added much-needed energy.

Nostalgic Moments, Yet Slow

While The First Time aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and tenderness, it often falls short of delivering consistent emotional impact. There are moments that elicit genuine smiles and chuckles, especially during the awkward exchanges between Dave and Aubrey. However, the film occasionally feels sluggish, with long stretches that test patience rather than deepen the emotional connection. The attempts at poignant reflections on love and relationships sometimes come off as forced, leading to moments where the viewer may feel disengaged.