One of the critical darlings of 2016 was “The Edge of Seventeen,” which is reminiscent of John Hughes classics such as “Sixteen Candles” and “Breakfast Club.” The film earned first-time director Kelly Fremon Craig a New York Film Critics Circle Award.
In the film, New York Film Academy Acting for Film alumnus Hayden Szeto plays Erwin, the love-struck classmate of Nadine. Szeto appears alongside Hailee Steinfeld, who was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance in the film, as well as Woody Harrelson and Kyra Sedgwick.
“The very first few hours on set I remember being extremely starstruck, however, this wonderful cast demystified themselves very quickly,” said Szeto about his experience. “Major props to our director, Kelly Fremon Craig, and the legendary James L. Brooks for creating such a close-knit-family feel on set where we felt safe.”
Throughout the movie, Erwin tries to pursue Nadine in a variety of ways, eliciting very awkward and hilarious situations. Szeto says his character is a “revolutionary role” written for Asian Americans. “I’m so honored and blessed to have been given this opportunity to represent a voice that is often silenced,” he added.
“I remember being on set the first day and saying to myself ‘Thank goodness I went to film school,’” recalled Szeto. “They say a little kindness goes a long way in this industry and it’s very true; one thing I take away from NYFA is appreciating the crew on both sides of the camera and understanding how much a film set is an ensemble piece where nobody has superiority over anybody. We are a team. Combining the knowledge of teamwork and my education at NYFA, I was not afraid to ask questions or try new things on set. It has made me fearless and allowed me to do my job more efficiently.”
“The Edge of Seventeen” is now available on Amazon, DVD and BluRay.
Please note: NYFA does not represent that these are typical or guaranteed career outcomes. The success of our graduates in any chosen professional pathway depends on multiple factors, and the achievements of NYFA alumni are the result of their hard work, perseverance, talent and circumstances.