Whenever I think of Rodney Dangerfield, I usually claim this film was his crowning achievement, and while I don't know too much about his career after 1986, I don't think he ever reached a higher point in his career. I'm surprised he was 65 when this film came out! To put in simple terms, he was terrific, as he displayed serious acting chops, playing it both funny AND serious. On the other hand, Keith Gordon's scenes usually bordered on sublime, and I feel he was the only negative aspect going on here. As someone said on a message board, it seems that Gordon was either trying to play it straight or funny, and both failed; watch the scene when he laughs annoyingly in class. I do admit that I liked his characters in Jaws 2(1978), and he was also solid in Christine(1983), so there's that. There's too many memorable guest stars to mention, and they all have great scenes, and the music is fitting for mid-80's. Sometimes I wish I could go back to being a stupid 80's teen as I once was, but sometimes the memories are better than the real thing, and I'm sure I loved the summer of 1986, especially after seeing this film. We really didn't need internet or cell phones(although Thornton uses a giant car phone)to have fun back then, as times were simpler, as evidenced by the silly fun in this movie. If you're a fan of Rodney, you must see this film, as I consider it his magnum opus, at least in his acting career.
Review of Back to School
