This movie was written by Jackie and Jeff Fligo (of That 70's Show) and directed by Michael Dowse (never heard of him).
It's 1988 and recent college graduate Matt (Topher Grace), his twin sister Wendy (Anna Faris), and Matt's high school friend Barry (Dan Fogler) are at a crossroads between college and the real world. Matt is trying to figure out what to do with his life while still pining over his dream girl Tori (Teresa Palmer).
Matt is a recent MIT grad who, despite his parents' wishes, took a job at Suncoast Video (did anyone ever really shop there?). One day while working the counter, Tori walks in and Matt turns into a blubbering idiot. In an effort to impress the heavenly Tori, Matt quickly changes out of his Suncoast flair and pretends to hold a job at the esteemed Goldman Sachs. Of course there's a big Labor Day party that night that everyone from high school is going to be at. Can Matt keep up the act and still land the girl he's wanted since high school?
We walked into this movie expecting the standard 80's nostalgic comedy like Hot Tub Time Machine or The Wedding Singer, and we weren't disappointed. There is the cliche 80's neon colors, high bangs, popped up collar, and dance moves. One original moment in the movie that we especially liked was the "ball drop" (think "the Atlasphere" from American Gladiators).
The "ball drop" is unique but the overall story was very formula with standard all-night long plot twists, a pretty funny dance off, drug references, a car crash, and an awkward sex scene. And don't forget the standard goofy, overweight best friend (which could have been played by a younger Jack Black, but Dan Fogler does just fine) who serves as the comic relief.
Here's what we liked and didn't care for:
Cherry's dislikes - the actors (except Teresa Palmer) are way too old to be playing 22-year-olds & the song "Take Me Home Tonight" was not even in the movie
Cherry's likes - it was nice seeing Topher Grace play the smart yet conflicted man-boy & Chris Pratt does a great job playing preppy, not-so-bright, rich jock Kyle
Hammer's dislikes - the movie ended up being a little too formula - does he get the girl? Gee, I wonder - & guys, there isn't as much nudity in this one as you think for a rated R movie. The MPAA probably gave it the R for the drug scenes.
Hammer's likes - the movie boasts a terrific 80's soundtrack & Teresa Palmer has moved up on my To Do list (Honorable Mention goes to Angie Everhart)
All in all, we both agree that this movie is a fun 80's nostalgic flick but don't rush to the theater to see it. We spent our money to see this in the theater, but you don't need to. Just wait for it on Netflix or catch it on a premium cable channel.
Until next time, Hammer and Cherry
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