Fast
Times at Ridgemont High was a noteworthy and very popular film among
teenagers at the time of its release. Although it's a bit dated, it's
one of those movies that shouldn't be overlooked when going over the
significant films of the 1980s. Lots of stars were borne from the film, most
notably Sean Penn (State of Grace,
U Turn), who provides the film with the best
moments as surfer/stoner Jeff Spicoli.
The storyline follows the lives of
several teens going to Ridgemont High in Southern California during the early
1980s. There's the new girl who searches for love and intimacy, the young
nerdy boy that finds romance an awkward proposition, and there's a young
surfer who finds his antics cause himself a heap of trouble with the stern
teacher in one of his classes.
Although Fast Times at Ridgemont
High is a much loved film, especially for those who are nostalgic for the
time period, the sum of its parts is greater than it is as a whole. To say
Sean Penn steals the movie with his performance might actually rank as an
understatement. He carries the film on his shoulders, providing the laughs
and most of the interest, and when he's onscreen the film is at its best. The
main storyline involving Jennifer Jason Leigh (Short
Cuts, The Anniversary Party) and
her search for love doesn't involve him much, and is a bit more serious, but
gives the film the depth it needs to show it is more than a typical teen
comedy.
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
proved to be a genuine surprise for filmgoers of its time. A rare frank and
open teen film that offers some genuinely funny moments, and manages to
transcend its one-dimensional characters and contrived situations. Although
the storyline is rather predictable and the situations and characters
unrealistic, the film is still quite worthwhile for the funnier bits, and it's
a must see for fans of 80s films and Sean Penn.
-- Followed by a short-lived TV series
in 1986, "Fast Times".
Qwipster's rating:
©1998 Vince Leo
