15 (film)

15 is a 2006 Singaporean coming-of-age drama film directed by Royston Tan. The film follows the lives of several troubled teenagers, depicting their struggles with family issues, societal pressures, gang violence, and self-discovery.

The film is notable for its raw and realistic portrayal of youth culture, often employing colloquial Singaporean English (Singlish) and incorporating elements of street culture. 15 gained significant attention and controversy upon its release for its explicit content, including depictions of drug use, violence, and self-harm.

Despite the controversy, 15 received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of marginalized youth and its unflinching examination of social issues in Singapore. The film won several awards, including the Best Director award at the Singapore International Film Festival. It remains a significant and influential work in Singaporean cinema, prompting discussions about censorship, social responsibility, and the representation of youth in film. The film's title, 15, refers to the age of the main characters.