Review of Dazed and Confused (1993) by Keith D — 18 Nov 2011

Dazed and Confused is a great film that really puts 70's youth under the scope. With a stellar ensemble and a perfect soundtrack, there isn't much that keeps this movie from achieving excellence.

With several different names from The Fifth Element's Milla Jovovich to Rent's Anthony Rapp, Ben Affleck to future Chasing Amy co-star Joey Lauren Adams and of course Matthew McConaughey, the ensemble is realized as a group of growing young actors who benefit from one another's company on screen and off screen. The sort of collective chemistry that can be witnessed is created by true bonding over a passionate project. Not only is their connection evident, but their performances are all so well done. Every character is fully realized by each actor, particularly so in Rory Cochrane's scenes as Ron Slater. The setting is fully believable with accurate portrayals, appropriate costuming and a spectacular soundtrack that gathers the film into one central tone.

However, the screenplay leaves more to be desired. While everything feels realistic to the point of giving me a sense of false nostalgia, the story doesn't truly go anywhere. As much booze, pot and delinquency going on in the film as there was, you'd imagine there'd be some form of repercussion for any of the characters. The conflict was between the senior and freshman classes and even then, their quarrel was resolved around two-thirds into the movie. I understand that this film isn't about the issues with drug use or the dangers of underage drinking, but it wouldn't kill a stoner film to have honest character development with a clever plot. Granted, I really enjoy the random events of the senior class that set the environment and the hilarious dialogue that gives each character their own sort of flair. The only shame is that the writing is more concerned with showcasing a good time, rather than being focused toward storytelling.

All in all, Dazed and Confused is a little bit of both, but it's still well worth watching and a necessary film for any teenager.