Review of Rock 'n' Roll High School (1979) by Marcus W — 29 Jun 2014

In the late 1970's, budget producer extraordinaire Roger Corman took a break from horror and science fiction knock offs, wanting to give the world a teen comedy filled with the popular music of the day the likes of which started his career a decade earlier. The result of that is "Rock and Roll High School", a goofy but engaging film that inexplicably defied the odds to become a cult classic.

There's barely a story here, but its theme of youthful rebellion against the establishment struck a chord with young moviegoers, and you just can't beat the music. After considering other, presumably more expensive bands for the film, Corman settled on the Ramones and the rest was history. They were perhaps the ugliest band going at the time, and it's a wonder they could deliver any of their dozen or so lines, but the songs are timeless and bring the movie to life.

Amid all of the chaos are two very likable young stars in Dey Young and P.J. Soles, who both give winning and effervescent performances here. After already appearing in both "Carrie" and "Halloween", it's a shame that Soles never became more famous after her memorable and star-making turn in this.

There's hardly a story to follow, as this is basically one long ad for the band, primarily concert footage with some occasionally amusing jokes thrown in for good measure. Still, "Rock and Roll High School" captures its time and place perfectly and preserves it for posterity. It's not going to change the world, but it is a bubbly and energetic film.