Review of Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982) by Mark H — 14 May 2012

Fast Times at Ridgemont High is one of those rare films that rises above the usually trashy genre of sex, drugs and teenage life by actually showing some respect for its characters and their issues. There are cheap jokes and bathroom humor, to be sure, but mixed throughout (often from one scene to the next) are sincere moments and genuine feelings.

This is surely due to the awkward mix of Cameron Crowe and Amy Heckerling influences. The performances are good all around, and the casting is excellent. Several careers were launched by this film, and it is now a deserving cult classic.

This film does better what "Little Darlings" tried to do two years earlier. The soundtrack is great and really compliments the early 80's feel. Overall, this is a worthwhile film which sometimes stoops below its own level but gets it right more often than it gets it wrong.