Twelve: People with Problems

Twelve is a new hip drug in NYC, a mixture of coke and weed, real kooky shit, and it is also the title of a gripping, lively, narrow and thoughtful web directed by Joel Schumacher and based from a novel written by Nick McDonell, rolling from an adapted screenplay by Jordan Melamed as it sets its cross hairs over emotionally-weathered teenagers in need of something, a something that is very unique to them but they all suffer from the same fault: they are not satisfied with their lives. It is an emotionally driven film that showcases multiple character depth with interchanging sequences that supply screen-time for new, young faces from the world of acting rather than delve into a myriad of taut storytelling. The novel is probably the perfect substitute, but it is still a compelling tale to watch unfold.

One character is a bookworm that excels at history, but seeks the new hip drug and turns into a strung-out junkie along the way. Another is a roid-popping troubled big brother with a multitude of issues, especially those that stem from the strained relationship with his parents. Bent any further, he might very well break as he manically purchases pistols and swords from a self-concerned saleswoman that insists on cash only transactions. Heartthrob Chace Crawford, from Gossip Girl, is the main focus, portraying a sharp-dressed drug dealer that works for the higher-up-the-food-chain 50 Cent, who plays his superior with a knack for getting into trouble. Crawford’s good looks contrast well against White Mike’s struggle with mommy issues, somewhere frozen along the way in the wake of his mother’s mortal tussle with cancer.

Twelve centers on Crawford’s character, White Mike, and his aspired but disjointed relationship with a childhood friend, played by Emma Roberts, a bond that is only met with rigidity and tension. Rory Culkin plays the younger brother of the roid addict, who probably has the most heartbreaking performance in the film, contrasting from his real-life brother’s Home Alone fame as he hosts parties for the mindless socialites and nervously tries to avoid his violent older brother that tends to smash his hand on the wall of the shower. All of these characters revolve around one another, mixed in with drug exploration. From preppy girls, rich kids to the homicidal turn shown by Billy Magnussen's troubled big brother role, it certainly packs a lot of sting. I only wish it could have gone even deeper earlier in the film and perhaps snagged a hold on bigger names to shine amongst the young actors, but the conclusion is well worth the build-up. Is it truly worth it to run away from one's problems or face them? Before too long, fate has a tendency to decide instead.

In conclusion, the concentrated depth works for the film’s overall scope and reach ability. I found myself liking the faces and personalities hidden underneath them. The cynical and wise narration by Kiefer Sutherland, still riding off his Phone Booth menacing persona, is a nice addition to this well-paced portrait. If you’re looking for some sympathy to your own emotions, then this is the movie for you. It shows that everyone struggles in their own special way, regardless of how pretty or popular they are and that every soul handles stress diversely.