Hiding Out

Hiding Out is a 1987 American comedy-drama film directed by Bob Giraldi and starring Jon Cryer, Keith Coogan, and Annabeth Gish. With a unique plot, the film delivers a fascinating perspective on living a double life in pursuit of a new identity. Sprinkled with subtle humor, romance, and thrilling suspense, the film holds its audience captive as they root for the main characters.

The primary protagonist in Hiding Out is a young and slick stockbroker, Andrew Morenski, portrayed by Jon Cryer. Andrew enjoys an affluent lifestyle— a big-city success riding high and fast on the stock exchange. However, he unexpectedly stumbles onto a dangerous corporate fraud that risks his life. Andrew becomes the primary target of ruthless hitmen after he's subpoenaed to testify in a grand jury's investigation into the company's malpractices.

With his life in danger, Andrew is forced to enter the witness protection program, but when that ends up compromised, he must take matters into his own hands to protect himself. He illustrates a vivid example of primal survival instincts in the face of imminent danger, escaping and taking on a new identity.

In an odd but innovative twist, Andrew transforms himself into Max Hauser, a high school student. The hilarious part is his relatively older appearance, which contrasts with his new teenage self. However, Andrew/Max manages to blend into the school life as any other student would, entering an amusing tale of a man-child stuck between two surreal worlds.

Andrew not only navigates high school with faux-adolescent awkwardness but also sparks a surprising romance. Beautiful high schooler and fellow student Ryan Campbell, played by Annabeth Gish, becomes his love interest. This love subplot not only provides several sweet moments but also injects an extra layer of tension into the story, given Andrew's precarious situation.

Keith Coogan, as Andrew's teenage cousin Patrick, delivers a remarkable performance. He becomes Andrew's "wingman" of sorts, helping him keep his cover and navigate the intricacies of teenage life in the '80s. Their interactions help to deepen the plot and bring out some of the film's comedic moments.

Hiding Out effectively produces an excellent combination of comedy, drama, and suspense. It collaborates the thrills of an action-packed detective thriller with the lightness of a romantic comedy. The stylistic storytelling maneuvers with seamless precision from adrenaline-fueled chases to entertaining classroom debates, romantic escapades at high school dances, and the complexities of teenage friendships.

Throughout the story, the audience remains anxious to know how long Andrew can sustain his act. Additionally, the film successfully instigates a subtle critique about the education system and the life of modern high schools. It takes a potent shot at underlining the vast differences between the innocence of high school years and the cynicism of corporate life.

Jon Cryer, as the hybrid character, demonstrates a persuasive performance as a man desperate for survival but grappling with an unusual disguise. His portrayal of a Wall Street stockbroker trapped in the disorienting world of high school is humorous, endearing, and at times, profoundly insightful.

Besides its gripping narrative, Hiding Out benefits from a tremendous rock and pop soundtrack. The musical score, an ensemble of '80s hits, enhances the film's mood effectively, reflecting the emotional roller coaster Andrew goes through, from fear to love and everything in between.

Director Bob Giraldi strikes a harmonious balance between comedy and thriller elements. Despite the unusual concept, Giraldi successfully creates deep empathy for the characters, making the audience care for their fate.

In essence, Hiding Out is a light-hearted comedy-drama with elements of suspense that keeps the audience hooked on every scene. Not only does it eloquently walk the tight rope between various genres, but it also gives us a delightful and unexpected viewing pleasure. It's a funny, thrilling, kindhearted piece of entertainment that should not be missed by any movie enthusiast.