Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)

Comedy | Drama

MG – “A fun teen culture classic from the 80’s, written by first time screenwriter Cameron Crowe (Jerry McGuire), and directed by Amy Heckerling (Clueless). We follow the young Californian high school students of Ridgemont High, enjoying their favourite discussion topics of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll with very memorable characters. From Stacy (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and Linda (Phoebe Cates) with their discussions of sexual misadventures, optimistic go-getter Brad (Judge Reinhold) with his whirlwind experience in fast food chains. To smooth-talking Damone (Robert Romanus) teaching shy friend ‘Rat’ Ratner (Brian Backer) how to approach the lady’s, and the ultimate stoner surfer dude Spicoli (Sean Penn) just riding the wave of school, all in fun. This also features a young football jock Jefferson (Forest Whitaker).

This is yet another truly 80’s feature right here, and the dialogue and character personalities are funny, entertaining and impressive. A great 80’s soundtrack backs the film too, and the underlaying tone of serious topics really rounds these story’s out nicely. It’s great seeing these actors and actress’s in their youth too, playing the part, and all in their early screen careers.”

★ 8/10 ★

Brad Hamilton: [binning cold fries] I shall serve no fries before their time.

Mike Damone: The attitude dictates that you don’t care whether she comes, stays, lays, or prays. I mean whatever happens, your toes are still tappin’. Now when you got that, then you have the attitude.

Brad Hamilton: Hey, you guys had shirts on when you came in here.

Jeff Spicoli: Well, somethin’ happened to ’em mahn. Ahuhuh.

Jeff Spicoli: No shirt, no shoes… [All] No dice! Ohhhh Hahaha.