This is not a great movie and it got bad reviews, but it stays in the movie rotations of many television stations. Why? Because it is funny. Just watch it and enjoy. It is really aimed at young teens and they will probably like it best.
91 Reviews
Funny and Entertaining
claudio_carvalho28 April 2020
When the summer vacation comes, the gym teacher Freddy Shoop (Mark Harmon) is ready to travel to Hawaii with his girlfriend. However, he assigned by Vice Principal Phil Gills (Robin Thomas) to give English classes in summer to undisciplined and mediocre high-school students. When Phil promises to fire Freddy unless his students pass the test, he agrees to grant a wish from each student if they study the English lessons he prepares with the support of the history teacher Ms. Robin Elizabeth Bishop (Kirstie Alley).
"Summer School" is a funny and entertaining comedy from the 80´s and underrated by professional critics. This movie certainly would never be an Oscar nominated but it is hilarious and makes the viewer laugh. Mark Harmon´s procedures and deal with the class is very funny and Kirstie Alley and Courtney Thorne-Smith very beautiful. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): "Curso de Verão" ("Summer School")
"Summer School" is a funny and entertaining comedy from the 80´s and underrated by professional critics. This movie certainly would never be an Oscar nominated but it is hilarious and makes the viewer laugh. Mark Harmon´s procedures and deal with the class is very funny and Kirstie Alley and Courtney Thorne-Smith very beautiful. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): "Curso de Verão" ("Summer School")
California Props
thenightlibrary5 February 2022
Malibu at sunset, Venice Beach, electric yellow radio headphones, "Cool Dude" sunglasses in a box, SHOOP on the chalkboard with two googly eyes / eyes poked through with #2 pencils, pregnant teenager in a onesie, surfer sarongs, Hawaiian shirts, a severed dolly head doggy toy, kissing in the surf, roller skates in jail, fresh safety pin through the ear, the principal's plaid blazer, Kirstie Alley's pumps and bottom swinging in pink, a cuffed severed-hand alarm clock, a drive-through photo developer, an Italian exchange student in a bikini, Mark Harmon's baby blues, a busted convertible and a driving test, dyslexia, tattered textbooks, mom's $5 in her son's g-string, fireworks on the couch, fish oven mitts, bubble sheets, Lamaze, leis, the football field in summer, the school hallways in summer, the lockers in summer, "there's no place like home."
One cool movie
fasted_226 December 1999
This movie is truly a blast from the past. The characters are funny and the plot is very interesting. Personally, the best character's are Dave and Chainsaw due to their "laid back" attitudes in the film. Mark Harmon also does a good job in his role. The movie is in the mid 80's but thats what makes it so interesting.If you have not seen the movie... go rent it, you just might enjoy it. Two thumbs wayyy up.
I give it two thumbs up.
Hey_Sweden30 July 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Freddy Shoop (Mark Harmon) is an easygoing Phys. Ed. Instructor who has big plans for the summer, intending to travel to Hawaii with his girlfriend. But he ends up roped into teaching remedial English to a group of delinquent kids instead. Initially he's as reluctant to be in a classroom for the summer as they are, and they have a wacky series of "field trips" before he realizes that these kids aren't really that dumb, and he begins to take the assignment seriously - and manages to inspire them to do their best.
This very likable comedy holds up pretty well 27 years later, with a first rate cast creating an engaging and memorable set of characters. Harmon does well in his first American feature film star vehicle; he COULD have just coasted through this thing on his looks and charisma, but he shows a nice comic ability as well. Kirstie Alley is endearing as the teacher whom he persistently tries to win over, and Robin Thomas Grossman is just right as the nemesis character (the uptight vice principal of the school) who you enjoy booing all the way through the thing.
The two best characters, certainly for a horror fan such as this viewer, are the laid-back Francis "Chainsaw" Gremp (so nicknamed because of his love for Tobe Hoopers' "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre"), played by Dean Cameron, and his friend Dave (Gary Riley). Their love of gore climaxes in a truly fun moment as the students scare away a substitute teacher with a classroom full of splatter; naturally, a viewing of the Hooper classic occurs along the way. The other kids include football player Kevin (Patrick Labyorteaux), surfer Pam (Courtney Thorne- Smith), the dyslexic Denise (Kelly Jo Minter), underage male stripper Larry (Ken Olandt), pregnant Rhonda (Shawnee Smith), nerdy Alan (Richard Steven Horvitz), and luscious Italian exchange student Anna-Maria (Fabiana Udenio). Director Carl Reiner, who'd previously done another seasonal comedy, "Summer Rental" with John Candy, has a cameo early in the movie. Amy Stock (the "Bill & Ted" movies), Laura Waterbury ("Better Off Dead"), and Duane Davis ("Beetlejuice") all have small roles.
"Summer School" sometimes get silly, but never goes overboard in that regard. It remains an upbeat and watchable story from start to finish, with some serious (but not too serious) moments, and it follows the formula of "misfits make good" stories pretty well. The soundtrack also helps to add to the good vibes.
Seven out of 10.
This very likable comedy holds up pretty well 27 years later, with a first rate cast creating an engaging and memorable set of characters. Harmon does well in his first American feature film star vehicle; he COULD have just coasted through this thing on his looks and charisma, but he shows a nice comic ability as well. Kirstie Alley is endearing as the teacher whom he persistently tries to win over, and Robin Thomas Grossman is just right as the nemesis character (the uptight vice principal of the school) who you enjoy booing all the way through the thing.
The two best characters, certainly for a horror fan such as this viewer, are the laid-back Francis "Chainsaw" Gremp (so nicknamed because of his love for Tobe Hoopers' "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre"), played by Dean Cameron, and his friend Dave (Gary Riley). Their love of gore climaxes in a truly fun moment as the students scare away a substitute teacher with a classroom full of splatter; naturally, a viewing of the Hooper classic occurs along the way. The other kids include football player Kevin (Patrick Labyorteaux), surfer Pam (Courtney Thorne- Smith), the dyslexic Denise (Kelly Jo Minter), underage male stripper Larry (Ken Olandt), pregnant Rhonda (Shawnee Smith), nerdy Alan (Richard Steven Horvitz), and luscious Italian exchange student Anna-Maria (Fabiana Udenio). Director Carl Reiner, who'd previously done another seasonal comedy, "Summer Rental" with John Candy, has a cameo early in the movie. Amy Stock (the "Bill & Ted" movies), Laura Waterbury ("Better Off Dead"), and Duane Davis ("Beetlejuice") all have small roles.
"Summer School" sometimes get silly, but never goes overboard in that regard. It remains an upbeat and watchable story from start to finish, with some serious (but not too serious) moments, and it follows the formula of "misfits make good" stories pretty well. The soundtrack also helps to add to the good vibes.
Seven out of 10.
You people are PSYCHOPATHS !
mungflesh29 November 2001
After reading through the reviews on here to date, there's not a single bad one !
NO! WAY! Party all-the-time! Party all-the-time!
This film really is as cool as everyone says. Dated 80's stuff doesn't get in the way of great characters and sharp wit. If you've not seen it yet, rent it & marvel at the goriest sequence in a high school comedy ever - these people are PSYCHOPATHS !
Particular favs of mine are the 'I don't know anything' dream gag, the Rick Baker essay sequence and the 'War puts a man through many, many changes' gag from Dave. Top stuff.
9/10
NO! WAY! Party all-the-time! Party all-the-time!
This film really is as cool as everyone says. Dated 80's stuff doesn't get in the way of great characters and sharp wit. If you've not seen it yet, rent it & marvel at the goriest sequence in a high school comedy ever - these people are PSYCHOPATHS !
Particular favs of mine are the 'I don't know anything' dream gag, the Rick Baker essay sequence and the 'War puts a man through many, many changes' gag from Dave. Top stuff.
9/10
Enjoyable
BandSAboutMovies5 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Wondering why Summer School is still funny 33 years later and a lot of these Police Academy-style movies are dated? It was directed by Carl Reiner, who knows funny.
It was written by Jeff Franklin, who was also behind Just One of the Guys and created Full House and its Netflix spin-off Fuller House, which he was removed from after #metoo complaints. Oddly enough, he owned 10050 Cielo Drive, which he demolished and replaced with a new house before listing it for sale in 2019.
Phys Ed teacher Freddy Shoop (Mark Harmon) just wants school to be over so that he can go to Hawaii, but when Mr. Dearadorian (Reiner) retires, he gets stuck teaching summer school.
He's left with the worst kids in school for the best time of being a teacher, which would be summer vacation. There's Pam (a pre-Melrose Place Courtney Thorne-Smith), male exotic dancer Larry (Ken Olandt, syndicated series Super Force); Kevin the jock (Patrick Labyorteaux brother to Matthew), pregnant Rhonda (Shawnee Smith, The Blob), Alan the nerd (Richard Steven Horvitz, the voice of Alpha 5 in Power Rangers), Jerome (Duane Davis, who was in A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master), exchange student Anna-Maria (Fabiana Udenio, Alotta Fagina from Austin Powers), Denise (Kelly Jo Minter, Maria from The Lost Boys) and horror film lovers Dave (Gary Riley, Charlie from Stand by Me) and Chainsaw, who is played by Dean Cameron, who this horror-obsessed fan knows was Ralph in Bad Dreams and Ralph the vampire in Rockula.
Will Freddy get Robin the history teacher (Kirstie Alley) to fall for him? Will the kids all graduate? Will there be an extended viewing of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre? Will hijinks, as I always say, ensue?
Of course.
This is the only Danny Elfman soundtrack that has never been released. There's also E.G. Daily's "Mind Over Matter," which was originally a Debbie Harry song that she recorded and had some success with.
Ah man. More people should know about this movie. Here's hoping that my little write-up convinces you to give it a chance.
It was written by Jeff Franklin, who was also behind Just One of the Guys and created Full House and its Netflix spin-off Fuller House, which he was removed from after #metoo complaints. Oddly enough, he owned 10050 Cielo Drive, which he demolished and replaced with a new house before listing it for sale in 2019.
Phys Ed teacher Freddy Shoop (Mark Harmon) just wants school to be over so that he can go to Hawaii, but when Mr. Dearadorian (Reiner) retires, he gets stuck teaching summer school.
He's left with the worst kids in school for the best time of being a teacher, which would be summer vacation. There's Pam (a pre-Melrose Place Courtney Thorne-Smith), male exotic dancer Larry (Ken Olandt, syndicated series Super Force); Kevin the jock (Patrick Labyorteaux brother to Matthew), pregnant Rhonda (Shawnee Smith, The Blob), Alan the nerd (Richard Steven Horvitz, the voice of Alpha 5 in Power Rangers), Jerome (Duane Davis, who was in A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master), exchange student Anna-Maria (Fabiana Udenio, Alotta Fagina from Austin Powers), Denise (Kelly Jo Minter, Maria from The Lost Boys) and horror film lovers Dave (Gary Riley, Charlie from Stand by Me) and Chainsaw, who is played by Dean Cameron, who this horror-obsessed fan knows was Ralph in Bad Dreams and Ralph the vampire in Rockula.
Will Freddy get Robin the history teacher (Kirstie Alley) to fall for him? Will the kids all graduate? Will there be an extended viewing of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre? Will hijinks, as I always say, ensue?
Of course.
This is the only Danny Elfman soundtrack that has never been released. There's also E.G. Daily's "Mind Over Matter," which was originally a Debbie Harry song that she recorded and had some success with.
Ah man. More people should know about this movie. Here's hoping that my little write-up convinces you to give it a chance.
Summer School
Scarecrow-882 December 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Spirited, fun-loving gym coach (Mark Harmon, never more charming or high energy) is saddled with high school kids stuck in summer school due to terrible grades in English, needing to get them to pass a test at the end so he can reach tenure. While the vice principal (a well cast stick-in-the-mud Robin Thomas) doubts Harmon can do it, the kids, through bribing (Harmon agrees to grant them favors if they will allow him to teach them English!), start to actually study and learn progressively. Meanwhile Harmon continues to ask fellow teacher Kirstie Alley (never more yummy) out on a date, unimpeded by her constant rejection towards him.
An electric cast of familiar faces in young roles, a splendid sunny coastal setting, sense of humor that aims to please, breezy direction that makes the most of the formula plot, and some delightful homages to the slasher films of the 80s (this was around '87 as slasher films were riding the high soon to wane in the next few years) really keep the film appealing. It is a cult comedy that is anchored (and boosted) by Harmon's winning personality (he is mostly known as a dramatic actor with more effort toward intensity and sincerity which makes this character a welcome change of pace for him) with memorable duo of horror make-up aficionados, Chainsaw and Dave (Dean Cameron and Gary Riley, quite a pair), leaving a zany impression.
But the cast is filled with faces those who grew up with television and movies in the 80s and 90s know: Patrick Labyorteaux (Little House on the Prairie; Heathers; Ghoulies III: JAG) as football player needing to lift his grades to make the team, Courtney Thorne-Smith (Melrose Place; Ally McBeal) as teenage surfer infatuated with Harmon, Kelly Jo Minter (after this she was in both The Lost Boys and A Nightmare on Elm Street 5) as dyslexic student trying to get her driver's license, Ken Olandt (April Fool's Day was right before this and he also starred in Leprechaun a few years later) as underage stripper who sleeps during summer class, Shawnee Smith (Saw; Who's Harry Crumb?) as pregnant teenager Labyorteaux takes a shine to, Richard Steven Horvitz as allergy-plagued dork who is burdened with being the black sheep in terms of not passing class (he has made a career as a voice artist), foxy foreign exchange student Fabiana Udenio who eventually strips to bikini and is an object of lust for the horror film geeks to drool over, and hulking Duane Davis who goes to the bathroom on the first day and returns the last to take the test (and passes with the highest grade!).
Memorable scenes include the cast frightening a sub for Harmon with a splatter scene right out of a Freddy movie (the make-up effects are epic!), Harmon losing his girlfriend to a Hawaii trip as he must stay behind in order to remain employed, fireworks setting Harmon's couch on fire during a party at his house, Harmon's early teaching methods (which included field trips to an amusement park and the library), the summer school ending exams which had all the students rushing to just finish them, and the driver's exams where Cameron and Minter have their share of problems. Harmon and Alley have good chemistry, and his efforts finally pay off at the end...and how Harmon tries to disable Courtney's crush on him comes with some complications. Harmon's simply infectious, and NCIS fans might want to take a look at this to see a more laid-back and easy-breezy personality quite different from the rock of Gibraltar he inhabits on the long-time military action show.
An electric cast of familiar faces in young roles, a splendid sunny coastal setting, sense of humor that aims to please, breezy direction that makes the most of the formula plot, and some delightful homages to the slasher films of the 80s (this was around '87 as slasher films were riding the high soon to wane in the next few years) really keep the film appealing. It is a cult comedy that is anchored (and boosted) by Harmon's winning personality (he is mostly known as a dramatic actor with more effort toward intensity and sincerity which makes this character a welcome change of pace for him) with memorable duo of horror make-up aficionados, Chainsaw and Dave (Dean Cameron and Gary Riley, quite a pair), leaving a zany impression.
But the cast is filled with faces those who grew up with television and movies in the 80s and 90s know: Patrick Labyorteaux (Little House on the Prairie; Heathers; Ghoulies III: JAG) as football player needing to lift his grades to make the team, Courtney Thorne-Smith (Melrose Place; Ally McBeal) as teenage surfer infatuated with Harmon, Kelly Jo Minter (after this she was in both The Lost Boys and A Nightmare on Elm Street 5) as dyslexic student trying to get her driver's license, Ken Olandt (April Fool's Day was right before this and he also starred in Leprechaun a few years later) as underage stripper who sleeps during summer class, Shawnee Smith (Saw; Who's Harry Crumb?) as pregnant teenager Labyorteaux takes a shine to, Richard Steven Horvitz as allergy-plagued dork who is burdened with being the black sheep in terms of not passing class (he has made a career as a voice artist), foxy foreign exchange student Fabiana Udenio who eventually strips to bikini and is an object of lust for the horror film geeks to drool over, and hulking Duane Davis who goes to the bathroom on the first day and returns the last to take the test (and passes with the highest grade!).
Memorable scenes include the cast frightening a sub for Harmon with a splatter scene right out of a Freddy movie (the make-up effects are epic!), Harmon losing his girlfriend to a Hawaii trip as he must stay behind in order to remain employed, fireworks setting Harmon's couch on fire during a party at his house, Harmon's early teaching methods (which included field trips to an amusement park and the library), the summer school ending exams which had all the students rushing to just finish them, and the driver's exams where Cameron and Minter have their share of problems. Harmon and Alley have good chemistry, and his efforts finally pay off at the end...and how Harmon tries to disable Courtney's crush on him comes with some complications. Harmon's simply infectious, and NCIS fans might want to take a look at this to see a more laid-back and easy-breezy personality quite different from the rock of Gibraltar he inhabits on the long-time military action show.
One of the greatest 80s teen comedies ever made
ChainsawDaveandMisterShoop17 May 2003
While John Hughes seems to have the monopoly on 80s teen comedies, anyone who loved Ferris Bueller etc... should check out this Carl Reiner masterpiece. Great writing, flawless direction and perfect performances from the lead roles help this film portray summer, school, (as you could guess from the title)and teenage rebellion with charm and wit. Mark Harman is widely considered to have made his name on his looks, but the performance he gives in Summer School is one of a comedy master, with subtle hints of a father figure who never grew up himself. A timeless feel-good classic.
two thumbs up.
two thumbs up.
clean humor with heart
jep83124 January 2005
I'm not a big fan of comedies, or romances, or, romantic comedies. But I had a chance to catch this on television last weekend, and I enjoyed it as much as when I first saw it.
Yes, it was utterly predictable (which is why I usually don't watch romantic comedies). But it had something that so many comedies, particularly the newer ones, don't -- heart -- what with how the main character (the under-rated Mark Harmon) and his students helped each other grow up. And it was clever and funny without being dirty or vulgar -- it has not a smidgen of the potty humor that infects more recent offerings. And there was no sex, but it showed a young single pregnant girl making the mature choice to have her baby adopted. If you like this movie, or this kind of movie, try also the original Meatballs, a similar story with the fabulous Bill Murray in the lead.
Yes, it was utterly predictable (which is why I usually don't watch romantic comedies). But it had something that so many comedies, particularly the newer ones, don't -- heart -- what with how the main character (the under-rated Mark Harmon) and his students helped each other grow up. And it was clever and funny without being dirty or vulgar -- it has not a smidgen of the potty humor that infects more recent offerings. And there was no sex, but it showed a young single pregnant girl making the mature choice to have her baby adopted. If you like this movie, or this kind of movie, try also the original Meatballs, a similar story with the fabulous Bill Murray in the lead.
What a crazy summer.
michaelRokeefe15 March 2003
Being directed by Carl Reiner does not always mean an automatic hit. This is a typical high school flick with the usual teacher(Mark Harmon)that does not want to be there. Add in the misfit students that damn sure don't want to be in summer school. Somehow the "teach" hones in on the right wave length and actually gets the students to learn. Of course there has to be a love interest and it is Kirstie Alley looking probably her best. Goofy and off beat. No great shakes. Also in the cast are Robin Thomas, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Dean Cameron and the hot Shawnee Smith.
hilarious feel good film
Minkymouse18 May 2004
This has to be the funniest film I have ever seen - no matter how many times I watch it I still laugh in all the same places. I love all the characters, but especially Freddy who has the right mix of cheese and charm and slobiness with a heart of gold and dashing good looks. And I love his dog too. He's soooo cute. Chainsaw and Dave are inspired, especially the scene where they turn the classroom into a horror scene, and their faces when the exchange student doesn't quite remove her bikini top. The only criticism I have is that at the beginning of summer the class is about twice the size, but mysteriously shinks until the exam at the end, and oh yes, it should have been twice as long. I really hope it gets released on DVD at some point.
They don't make 'em like this anymore...
alucardvenom23 May 2008
Seriously. Today's comedy is pure crap. This movie is long lost gem I tell you. It might not be a very good movie, but it's not meant to be. It meant to be funny and that's exactly what it gives - lot of funny moments.
Characters are likable, with two horror fanatics Chainsaw and Dave being the funniest of them all. Things they do and say in this movie are nuts. You can actually find a now-(in)famous names in this movie, then unknown.
If you are a horror\comedy fun, check this one out for sure since this movie gives some tribute to Tobe Hooper's The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, since we are talking about characters who looooves horror and are experts in FX make up.
This movie is OK for a family watch or watching with lot of friends\girlfriend. Its one of my favorite B comedies of all time.
Characters are likable, with two horror fanatics Chainsaw and Dave being the funniest of them all. Things they do and say in this movie are nuts. You can actually find a now-(in)famous names in this movie, then unknown.
If you are a horror\comedy fun, check this one out for sure since this movie gives some tribute to Tobe Hooper's The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, since we are talking about characters who looooves horror and are experts in FX make up.
This movie is OK for a family watch or watching with lot of friends\girlfriend. Its one of my favorite B comedies of all time.
Summer days, whistling away
bkoganbing9 October 2017
Spencer Tracy was once asked what he looked for in a movie script and he answered 'days off'. Gym teacher Mark Harmon had the same attitude toward teaching, summers free. But when director Carl Reiner wins a lottery he who was stuck with teaching remedial English he says goodbye to the profession and this southern California high school needs a Summer School teacher.
And it's Harmon who lands the assignment because he still hasn't got his tenure and because he wasn't fast enough out of the parking lot. It's unanimous that these underachieving kids as well as the teacher don't want to be in class for July and August.
Stuck with it they are though. These kids are quite the collection, ranging from a pair of brain dead fans of slasher flicks, to a pregnant girl, to a kid who sleeps all day in class, to an athlete who thinks football is all there is in life. There's even a foreign exchange student from Italy who just wants to improve her English a bit before regular school starts.
School psychologist Kirstie Alley is there who Vice Principal Robin Thomas is putting the moves on. He's also the one who stuck Harmon in Summer School. As Alley shows more interest in Harmon he looks to sabotage him.
It wouldn't seem possible, but Harmon actually learns to care for his charges and is genuinely interested in them improving their literacy skills.
Although this film is a comedy it also has a subtle message against illiteracy. I was once involved with someone who was unable to read beyond a second grade level and he faked getting by in his short life. It's a terrible prison the mind is put in.
I have to say that Dean Cameron and Gary Riley who seem to be a harbinger of Bill&Ted were quite funny as the lunkheads who like slasher flicks. The greatest film ever made according to them is The original Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Harmon shows it in class to get their attention.
Summer School is an enjoyable view by a comedy master Carl Reiner.
And it's Harmon who lands the assignment because he still hasn't got his tenure and because he wasn't fast enough out of the parking lot. It's unanimous that these underachieving kids as well as the teacher don't want to be in class for July and August.
Stuck with it they are though. These kids are quite the collection, ranging from a pair of brain dead fans of slasher flicks, to a pregnant girl, to a kid who sleeps all day in class, to an athlete who thinks football is all there is in life. There's even a foreign exchange student from Italy who just wants to improve her English a bit before regular school starts.
School psychologist Kirstie Alley is there who Vice Principal Robin Thomas is putting the moves on. He's also the one who stuck Harmon in Summer School. As Alley shows more interest in Harmon he looks to sabotage him.
It wouldn't seem possible, but Harmon actually learns to care for his charges and is genuinely interested in them improving their literacy skills.
Although this film is a comedy it also has a subtle message against illiteracy. I was once involved with someone who was unable to read beyond a second grade level and he faked getting by in his short life. It's a terrible prison the mind is put in.
I have to say that Dean Cameron and Gary Riley who seem to be a harbinger of Bill&Ted were quite funny as the lunkheads who like slasher flicks. The greatest film ever made according to them is The original Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Harmon shows it in class to get their attention.
Summer School is an enjoyable view by a comedy master Carl Reiner.
There Is Just Something About This Film
tfrizzell4 November 2000
"Summer School" is a prime example of a film that over-achieves. It appears to be a typical teen comedy, but its screenplay is so smart that it is hard dislike. Carl Reiner's direction is substantial as he never tries to make the film more than it is. Mark Harmon does some of the best work of his ho-hum career as a high school physical education instructor who must teach a group of lazy students who all have more personality than brains. Kirstie Alley stars as the next-door teacher who teaches Harmon a few things about education. All of the students have their moments as well. However, it is Dean Cameron as "Chainsaw" who steals every scene and makes the film fun throughout. A strange over-achiever. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Entertaining And Fun To Watch
goleafs8413 March 2005
This is one of those movies; If you're looking for intelligence or an Oscar worthy movie, forget it; With this movie, you won't get it. However, if you're looking for a movie where you're looking to be entertained, and laugh out loud, you've found it in this movie.
The characters were a "mixed bag" of people from the jock who got kicked off the football team; The pregnant girl; The boy whose hormones are in overdrive; The suffer girl and of course "Chainsaw" and Dave; the 2 borderline psychos with warped minds, sense of humor and they love the move, "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" (they were my favorites). They all flunked the English skills test and have the opportunity to retake it, but they have to take a remedial English class in summer school. And then there's Freddie Shoop; The gym teacher looking for tenure, and is forced to teach these kids.
What makes this movie funny, is Freddie Shoop (in addition of the above mentioned), gets in trouble with the school's Vice Principal, when he took his students on "Field trips" to the beach, the petting zoo, amusement parks (to name a few places). So he makes a deal with the Vice Principal; To have them all pass the English skills test; So he will be granted tenure and not be fired, while making a deal with the students; So they will study and pass as well. All this while trying to win the love and affection of a fellow summer school teacher.
What makes this movie interesting now, is this movie has 7 actors who have moved on to bigger and better things. Besides the obvious, (Mark Harmon), there's Kirsty Alley, in her Pre "Cheers" days. Then there's Patrick Labyorteaux (Bud from "Jag"), Ken Oldnt, Cortney Thorne-Smith, of "Melrose Place" and "Ally McBeal" fame and "According to Jim", Shawnee Smith (Linda, From "Becker")and Richard Steven Horovitz whose done many voice characterizations for various Saturday morning cartoons.
Great Movie. I bought this years ago for my video library and will purchase the DVD soon.
The characters were a "mixed bag" of people from the jock who got kicked off the football team; The pregnant girl; The boy whose hormones are in overdrive; The suffer girl and of course "Chainsaw" and Dave; the 2 borderline psychos with warped minds, sense of humor and they love the move, "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" (they were my favorites). They all flunked the English skills test and have the opportunity to retake it, but they have to take a remedial English class in summer school. And then there's Freddie Shoop; The gym teacher looking for tenure, and is forced to teach these kids.
What makes this movie funny, is Freddie Shoop (in addition of the above mentioned), gets in trouble with the school's Vice Principal, when he took his students on "Field trips" to the beach, the petting zoo, amusement parks (to name a few places). So he makes a deal with the Vice Principal; To have them all pass the English skills test; So he will be granted tenure and not be fired, while making a deal with the students; So they will study and pass as well. All this while trying to win the love and affection of a fellow summer school teacher.
What makes this movie interesting now, is this movie has 7 actors who have moved on to bigger and better things. Besides the obvious, (Mark Harmon), there's Kirsty Alley, in her Pre "Cheers" days. Then there's Patrick Labyorteaux (Bud from "Jag"), Ken Oldnt, Cortney Thorne-Smith, of "Melrose Place" and "Ally McBeal" fame and "According to Jim", Shawnee Smith (Linda, From "Becker")and Richard Steven Horovitz whose done many voice characterizations for various Saturday morning cartoons.
Great Movie. I bought this years ago for my video library and will purchase the DVD soon.
Revenge of the 80's: High school teen comedies!
Captain_Couth31 January 2005
Summer School (1987) was one of the many high school teen movies that were revived during the 80's. Unlike most of them this wasn't as exploitive or filled with gratuitous nudity or really foul language. The movie has become a cable t.v. staple and found an audience on video as well.
The movie follows a bunch of misfits who failed to pass a basic high school English equivalence test. A gym coach (Mark Harmon) is given the unwanted assignment of teaching English over the summer. The cast is filled with several stars of the 80's (Dean Cameron, Kristy Alley, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Kelly Jo Minter and Shawnee Smith to name a few).
Not a classic by any means but a fun time killer and you'll be entertained. Be careful about watching it on broadcast t.v. because the foul language is looped badly.
Recommended.
The movie follows a bunch of misfits who failed to pass a basic high school English equivalence test. A gym coach (Mark Harmon) is given the unwanted assignment of teaching English over the summer. The cast is filled with several stars of the 80's (Dean Cameron, Kristy Alley, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Kelly Jo Minter and Shawnee Smith to name a few).
Not a classic by any means but a fun time killer and you'll be entertained. Be careful about watching it on broadcast t.v. because the foul language is looped badly.
Recommended.
Just a fun summer movie
jefybal-9755420 June 2022
"Alright, enough of this safe and sane garbage, it's time for dumb and dangerous!"
drewnes30 May 2021
I am not the type to say I wish I was back in school, but I sometimes to wish I was alive and in school in the 80's just to see how close it is to the movies of that time.
Also props to the horror effects done in this comedy.
Also props to the horror effects done in this comedy.
Mid-80's high-school comic gem.
dombrewer10 March 2003
I watched this film again for the first time in many years, and what I thought was funny then, I still think is funny now. I expected to be slightly embarrassed and disappointed with it, but the years haven't taken away what made the film so appealing to me as a teenager - it has a witty, quotable script, the comic acting from all the cast is excellent and it has a real heart. It's not a great surprise to see it was directed by a comic master - Carl Reiner (responsible for all of Steve Martin's best films) he directs it a perfect pace and tone. It's not high art and he knows it, so he just has a ball with his cast. It reminds me in many ways of the first Police Academy - silly, good-natured and extremely funny.
Mark Harmon is totally charming and is so at ease in this film it's impossible not to be taken along by him with a grin on your face. All the students do a great job - Dean Cameron as Chainsaw is hilarious and who would have thought the sexy little blond playing Pam would grow up to be so scarily square-jawed as Georgia in TV's 'Ally McBeal'. What I really love are the small details that raise this film out of the usual 'drop-out high school' comedies. The horror fixation of Chainsaw and Dave is brilliant and produces one of the most memorable scenes in 80s comedy. Finally, and most importantly, Wondermutt is one of the all-time great screen dogs. The return of Bob is daft feel-good genius. If you haven't already, see this film, and if you have, see it again!
Mark Harmon is totally charming and is so at ease in this film it's impossible not to be taken along by him with a grin on your face. All the students do a great job - Dean Cameron as Chainsaw is hilarious and who would have thought the sexy little blond playing Pam would grow up to be so scarily square-jawed as Georgia in TV's 'Ally McBeal'. What I really love are the small details that raise this film out of the usual 'drop-out high school' comedies. The horror fixation of Chainsaw and Dave is brilliant and produces one of the most memorable scenes in 80s comedy. Finally, and most importantly, Wondermutt is one of the all-time great screen dogs. The return of Bob is daft feel-good genius. If you haven't already, see this film, and if you have, see it again!
Ready for another session of Summer School
thejcowboy2229 July 2016
Warning: Spoilers
In 1969 I had a great summer despite my fractured thumb. The Mets were in a pennant race, First Man on the moon, WMHA summer day camp was even enjoyable with it's countless field trips. The summer of 1970 was a different story as I was required to go to Summer School for the first time for Math. From 8:30 -10 Monday through Friday. I didn't care for the teacher either as my classmates were at the bottom 10% of the my grade. Not the studious types to say the least. When I arrived home My mother wasn't very pleasant either . She was mad that I was home and not in a structured Camp. Being of age I understand the need for space and having me around wasn't emotionally helpful as far as Mom was concerned. There were a few more Moon missions with little fan fare and the Mets were mediocre at best. Just a total reverse of the prior year. The laid back slacker of a Physical Ed teacher Mr.Freddy Shoop (Mark Harmon)is really looking forward to his summer recess. In anticipation of spending his time in Hawaii with his lovely girlfriend, Shoop and his class watch the gymnasium scoreboard clock as they count down the the seconds to the final bell. Meanwhile in another part of the building a determined Mr. Dearadorian, English teacher, (DIRECTOR/ACTOR)Carl Reiner is rubbing scratch offs from the roll of California lottery tickets he purchase in hopes of winning his way out of his lousy job as Summer School Teacher. Our elated and exasperated English professor looks in shock as he realizes that he has won the big money prize and tells his boss good bye and runs off leaving the lone teacher poor Mr.Shoop holding the proverbial ball. No vacation, no Hawaii, just long days in the classroom teaching remedial English to a bunch of the strangest group of students you'll ever try to teach. From a hay fevered nerd Alan, Pregnant Rhonda,Larry the Chippendale dancer,Anna Maria Italian Beauty Queen, Dyslexic Denise and Wannabee House guest of Mr. Shoop Pam. The two stand out characters in this whole movie are students Francis Chainsaw (Dean Cameron) and his side kick Dave (Gary Reilly). With their array of disgusting props and viewing of their favorite Movie the Texas Chainsaw Massacre those two bring classroom participation to a comedic fever pitch. Shoop is basically clueless in teaching English and asks for Neighboring teacher (A SLENDER Miss Robin Bishop) Kirsty Alley for help on how to teach.At first Robin is standoffish due to the fact that she's dating cutthroat Assistant Vice principal Phil Gills(Robin Thomas) but Mark Harmon gives the Shoop character a special endearing charm and despite his transitional methods of teaching, he takes his misfits students to the beach, petting zoo and viewing The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Shoop is so taken in by his class that he makes deals with them by helping Denise with her driving exam,working with Larry at his football skills Lamaze coach for a pregnant Rhonda (Shawnee Smith) and hosting a party at his beachfront home for his rowdy pupils. The summer moves swiftly as the goal here is getting these kids ready for the English remedial exam. Just when it looks like all is lost as Mr. Shoop feels he's been taken advantage of because his Students over time didn't live up to their end of the bargain. Shoop storms out of his class, quits and the antics of his students rise to a higher level of comedy.You won't be disappointed in the outcome. Great period piece with no shortage of comedy but make sure you bring back the pass you used to go to the bathroom. I rate this movie 7 teacher's apples here!
Pretty worthless except for a few chuckles
shneur8 April 2006
This is a really silly teen movie, where all the teens are well into their twenties, as usual for Hollywood. I guess it was trying to hitch a ride on the success of "The Breakfast Club" two years earlier, but it lacks that cult classic's poignancy and dark humor. This one, about a gym teacher shanghaied into teaching remedial English instead of going to Hawaii, has its amusing moments, but basically is entirely predictable, and the characters are so shallow it's hard to care what happens to them, even for an hour and a half. I doubt that Phys Ed teachers, who have to graduate from college just like every other teacher, and who've always seemed to me like a decent bunch of people, would much appreciate the implication that they are all dummies. Oh well... For all you J.A.G. fans, you get to see Patrick Labyorteaux a decade before he became Bud Roberts.
Woof
bevo-1367820 July 2021
question
doyce4sub1 June 2005
Don't get me wrong. I think that this is a funny and amusing movie. I've seen it several times over the years. The major thing that bothers me though is at the beginning of the movie when the summer school class is first assembled, there are nearly 25-30 students in the classroom. In other words the class is almost full. Where did all the students go? When the "favors" are being passed out for the students to study, the number of students is greatly reduced. There are maybe 10 people that take the final tests.--Not counting the guy that went to the bathroom for six weeks. I looked over other reviews and nobody seems to notice the absence of the people that were there at the beginning of the movie. Also, no mention is made in the movie as to where the others went. I like the movie and think that it is a joy to watch but that's an observation that I notice every time I watch it.
Spoiled Texas Chainsaw Massacre
TheOneThatYouWanted9 March 2022
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