Class

Class is a fascinating coming-of-age comedy-drama film from 1983. This luxurious gem boasts a star-studded cast including the radiant Jacqueline Bisset, charismatic Rob Lowe, and compelling Andrew McCarthy. Directed by Lewis John Carlino and produced by Martin Ransohoff, the film is a captivating narrative of about convoluted friendships, first loves, and the whirlwind trials of adolescence.

The story centers around two young protagonists, Jonathan Ogner and Skip Burroughs, portrayed by Andrew McCarthy and Rob Lowe, respectively, who are enrolled in an elite East Coast boarding school. Their personalities are markedly contrasting. Jonathan a scholarly and hesitant freshman from a lower-middle-class family, is nervous about this new, auspicious environment. In contrast, Skip is an affluent, privileged, and opinionated senior whose life seems as simple and straightforward as a glass of champagne at a country club gathering.

Throughout the movie, the dynamics of their friendship fluctuates from being friends, allies, mentors, and rivals. It starts with Skip deciding to take the timid and socially awkward Jonathan under his wing, exposing him to the thrills and throws of high society teen life.

To offset the intensity of these character-driven moments, the narrative is interspersed with moments of light-hearted comedy, characteristic of 80's humor, ensuring that the plot never feels too heavy. With Skip's influence, Jonathan's life transforms dramatically from a shy nerd to a confident socialite, and he soon finds himself navigating situations that he would have found unimaginable just a few months prior.

The dramatic tension in the story intensifies when a beautiful and much older woman, Ellen, played by Jacqueline Bisset, enters the scenario. Jonathan stumbles into an encounter with Ellen, setting the stage for heart-fluttering and humorous moments as he awkwardly grapples with this new, confusing terrain of adult relationships and sexuality. Through this, Class poses deeper questions about emotional maturity, relationships, and identity, all while maintaining a light, comedic tone.

Throughout the movie, Ellen’s mysterious allure and sophistication make her an unforgettable character. Jacqueline Bisset's portrayal is radiant as she adeptly embodies the dual aspects of Ellen's character—the worldly, sensual woman and the tender-hearted, albeit troubled, persona beneath. Her character serves as an effective foil to the adolescent characters, offering a complexity and depth to the narrative.

Class also boasts a great supporting cast who bring life to the other students, teachers, and family members shaping our protagonists' world. This includes memorable performances by John Cusack in a youthful role and Alan Ruck, adding a few layers of intrigue to the movie.

The cinematography excellently captures the serene atmosphere of the restricted East Coast high society, the lavishness of the boarding school, contrasting starkly with the frenzied world of downtown Chicago. The direction, coupled with competent editing, facilitates the smooth transitioning between the different tones that are explored in the film—comedy, drama, and romance.

Class is not simply a teenage drama. Beyond its veneer of adolescent high jinks and humor, the film delves into themes of friendship, lust, deception, and the harsh realities that often accompany coming into adulthood. It probes into the pronounced class divide evident in Jonathan and Skip's backgrounds and the characters' different approaches to life, and provides commentary on social strata and nuanced morals.

The talented ensemble cast and the writing combine effectively to create an intriguing film that's equal parts teen comedy and sincere emotional drama. Class is a compelling mix of humor and thoughtful introspection, making it an emblematic representation of the conundrum that is adolescence. The film’s climax, without giving away any spoilers, leaves the viewer introspective yet fulfilled, highlighting the trials, tribulations, and growth that encapsulate the journey of entering adulthood. First loves, friendship, affirmations, and coming to terms with reality are all integral elements of the plot, ensuring that this film will resonate with any viewer, regardless of their age.

A masterpiece from the 80s, Class stands out as a definitively poignant teen drama. With its stellar performances, compelling plotlines, and a refreshing blend of comedy and drama, it remains a must-watch for fans of the genre.