Drama
United States of America
Old Enough is a coming-of-age film directed by Marisa Silver and released in 1984. The movie revolves around the unlikely friendship between two very different girls who are both on the cusp of adolescence. Lonnie (Sarah Boyd) is a well-to-do 12-year-old girl from a privileged background who lives in a fashionable Manhattan apartment building with her parents. Karen (Roxanne Zal), on the other hand, is a streetwise 15-year-old girl from the wrong side of the tracks who lives with her divorced mom in a run-down apartment in the Bronx.
Despite their polar-opposite backgrounds, Lonnie and Karen become fast friends when they meet on a New York City street corner. Karen is captivated by the life of luxury that Lonnie leads, and Lonnie is intrigued by Karen's tough girl attitude and willingness to take risks. The two girls begin spending their afternoons together, skipping school, shoplifting, and experimenting with make-up and cigarettes.
As their friendship deepens, the two girls confide in each other and share stories of their lives. Lonnie tells Karen about her privileged upbringing and her sheltered life, while Karen talks about her difficult family situation and the challenges she faces on the streets.
As the film progresses, Lonnie and Karen begin to influence each other in different ways. While Karen teaches Lonnie the ways of the streets, Lonnie helps Karen to confront some of her own issues and to face the truth about herself. In the end, the two girls come to a deep understanding and appreciation of each other's worlds and experiences.
Overall, Old Enough is a powerful and insightful film about social differences, friendship, and growing up. With strong performances by the lead actors and a touching and honest script, the film remains a classic of the coming-of-age genre.
