Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)

Synopsis

This cult high school comedy gave early screen exposure to Sean Penn and Jennifer Jason Leigh, as well as a directorial debut to Amy Heckerling ('Look Who's Talking', 'Clueless'). Whilst Stacy (Leigh) and Mark look for love, spurred on by their older schoolmates Linda and Mike, stoner Jeff (Penn) attempts to evade the clutches of the ever vigilant principal Mr Hand.
See more This cult high school comedy gave early screen exposure to Sean Penn and Jennifer Jason Leigh, as well as a directorial debut to Amy Heckerling ('Look Who's Talking', 'Clueless'). Whilst Stacy (Leigh) and Mark look for love, spurred on by their older schoolmates Linda and Mike, stoner Jeff (Penn) attempts to evade the clutches of the ever vigilant principal Mr Hand. Rock journalist Cameron Crowe (later director of 'Jerry Maguire') provides the script, and the soundtrack features the likes of The Go-Gos, Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty.
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Our review

"Cameron Crowe's sharply-written story based on his own experiences is perhaps the definitive American high school drama, capturing teenage life perfectly. But it's Sean Penn's Jeff Spicoli that runs away with the film."

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