First Period

First Period, directed by Charlie Vaughn and released in 2013, is a whimsical and campy comedy film reminiscent of the 80s, with a unique twist. It captures an eccentric concoction of competition, friendships, and teen life, with an unusual take on gender roles. The primary characters of the film are two unsuccessful high school girls portrayed by actors Brandon Alexander III and Dudley Beene, which forms a humorous and unconventional narrative.

The story revolves around new-girl-in-town Cassie, played brilliantly by Brandon Alexander III, and her best friend Maggie, portrayed by Dudley Beene. Both are high-school girls eager to fit into their new surroundings and become popular. However, both girls face multiple obstacles on their path due to their unusual and unorthodox nature, making them the underdogs in the social landscape of their school. With the narrative set in the 1980s, audiences will be reminded of the vibrant and colorful aesthetic of the decade.

Cassie, with her quirky panache and unique style, is an eccentric character who does not easily fit the social dynamics of a typical American high school. The flamboyant and over-the-top characterization by Brandon Alexander III makes Cassie a memorable and endearing character throughout the movie. Devoid of the clichéd 'popular-girl syndrome,' Cassie dreams of winning the talent competition at her high school, which she believes is the ticket to her popularity.

On the other hand, Maggie, played by Dudley Beene, is Cassie's only friend and companion in the school. Maggie, with her frothy magenta bonnet and offbeat personality, is a contrast to the standard high school girl seen in most teen films. Both characters find solace in each other’s company, making the friendship between the two an iconic part of the film. Dudley Beene gives a heartfelt performance, portraying the insecurities and worries of adolescence with touching accuracy.

The girls decide to participate in their school's talent contest to boost their popularity. However, their path to victory is obstructed by the popular girl duo, portrayed by Lauren Rose Lewis and Karli Kaiser, who are determined to keep their crown. Thus begins a hilarious and engaging journey filled with chaos, adversity, and growth for Cassie and Maggie in their quest to become popular.

First Period is a refreshing take on the typical high school drama, embodying the struggles of adolescence and the desire for acceptance and popularity that come with it. It also ventures into uncharted territories with its depiction of gender roles, presenting a fresh perspective on the genre. It is surged with comedy that both satirizes and pays homage to the popular tropes and clichés of the 1980s teen comedy drama.

To accentuate the 80s vibe, the movie features vibrant neon colors, outrageous costumes, and a synthesizer-heavy soundtrack. These nostalgic nuances successfully transport the audience back in time, capturing the essence of the era. Excellent camera work, combined with clever angles and shots, helps create a visually stimulating and immersive experience.

Notable performances by veteran actors help bolster the cast. Cassandra Peterson, known for her character Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, plays the keyboard teacher, while Jack Plotnick of "Girls Will Be Girls" fame plays the school principal, both adding layers of charm to the narrative.

Overall, First Period is a hilarious and light-hearted film that will appeal to lovers of unconventional humor. It is a celebration of individuality, reinforcing the idea that being different is not only acceptable but also something to be proud of. Despite being primarily a comedy, the film does not shy away from dealing with deeper themes such as acceptance, adolescence, and friendship. This balance between comedy and poignancy, combined with the movie's vibrant aesthetic and unforgettable characters, makes First Period a remarkable viewing experience. The central performances by Brandon Alexander III and Dudley Beene are commendable, bringing to life characters that defy norms and stand out in a crowd. Their journey of self-discovery and acceptance forms the heart and soul of the film.

In conclusion, First Period is an 80s educational videotape meets John Hughes’ high school flick kind of comedy, with a style blending satire and heart. With eccentric characters and a colorful world exploding with whimsy, it not only challenges gender norms but also celebrates them with comedy and flair.