There is heartbreak, and heartache here, minus exaggeration. And some life-affirming scenes, even if the film nearly ends on a lecture about how 16-year-olds can be the most misunderstood breed. This Sixteen is slight, but stays fresh and honest for the most part.

Sixteen pulls no punches when it matters. But it remains a warm, endearing film even when it gets down to tackling the bitter truths of life.

Simple but never simple-minded, this is a must watch.

Unlike most films made on youngsters, Sixteen is refreshingly real and extremely relevant in modern times. Thankfully, there are no standard teenage-film cliches like youngsters taking to drugs or other addictions, misbehaviour, rebellious attitude towards parents, etc.

Perhaps Sixteen tries to appease to one audience too many. Teens of course, who will seek empathy in the story and its characters, but also adults. Here the filmmakers try to interpret teenage thoughts for those who once when through it themselves but only have a few selective memories to latch on and laugh off. The times have changed too of course but despite the modus operandi turning to technology, the basic principles of teen angst hasn’t altered much. Hormones still rage, vices are still cool, but all teenagers eventually come of age.

SIXTEEN is well-intentioned and tackles relevant issues, although the second half could’ve been sharper. Good watch!