Review of Heathers (1989) by Deb P — 08 Dec 2010

I remember when this film came out when I was a junior in high school, but it didn't really strike me as it did upon my recent viewing. I think this film stabs at '80s teen films quite well, and makes an interesting point about how being the "rebel" is quite misunderstood. Clearly, being yourself is what defines you; not who your friends are, etc.

Winona Ryder is perfect as Veronica Sawyer who reluctantly becomes part of the biggest clique in school known as the "Heathers" due to a common surname. When Veronica meets a new kid in school(Christian Slater) who is filled with disgust for the "in" crowd, things take a twisted turn. I appreciate how this film doesn't take itself too seriously and how well it shows how an outsider's dislike of the norm reaches a whole new level of uncool. Slater's little Nicholson impression works here due to this film's satirical element, but I believe it ends there for this actor.

I've heard Wes Craven's "Scream" referred to as a cross between this film and "Friday the 13th", and I think that's a valid comparison being that both films focus on teenagers dealing with the death of peers in various ways.