Review of Can't Hardly Wait (1998) by Praveen D — 15 Jul 2013

A truly romantic film, if you can ignore the teen stereotypes. I guess that's the best thing I liked about it. After that, I like the way the camera actually observes the characters, without commenting. It's perceptive, but not exploitative - and that SOOO works for a film like this.

The high scenes:

1.) Preston (Ethan Embry) calling Barry Manilow from a deserted gas station pay phone at 2:00 A.M. Enter Jenna Elfman in a truly great, uncredited cameo.

2.) William Lichter (Charlie Korsmo) really pulling out all the plugs in an unforgettable performance of "Paradise City". He is ALL of Axl Rose, minus all the pretentious rockstar trappings. This is the true spirit of the song.

3.) The daylight scene, where sun dawns on the diner after the night of the party.

Worth watching, don't pass this up as a lame teen movie. And don't listen to those who tell you that it is one.

And, finally, about "American Pie" - watch "Can't Hardly Wait" instead. This is what "American Pie" tries so lamely and unsuccessfully to be....And "Can't Hardly Wait" doesn't even try....but gets there more gloriously.