Losin' It

Losin' It is an underrated coming-of-age comedy gem from the early '80s starring a young Tom Cruise, Jackie Earle Haley, and John Stockwell. Directed by Curtis Hanson, the movie gives us a notable snapshot of Cruise's early career, with a sprinkling of humor, friendship, and adolescent adventures.

Set in 1965, the plot follows three friends - high school senior Woody (John Stockwell), nerdy Dave (Tom Cruise), and womanizer Spider (Jackie Earle Haley). These California teens are eager to shake off the leash of innocence and supervision during their last days in high school. The boys decide to embark on a road trip to Tijuana, Mexico, hoping to live it up before facing the responsibilities of adulthood. Their primary motive? Losing their virginity - hence the well-choosen title, Losin' It.

Woody, the most level-headed of the group, is the driver of his beloved station wagon, 'Tank.' His best friends, Dave – the naive and idealistic teenager, and Spider – the tough-talking, trigger-happy guy, join him en route.

Their trio unexpectedly extends to a quartet with the inclusion of an older woman, Kathy, played by Shelley Long (famous for her role in 'Cheers'). Kathy is on a mission to get a quick divorce in Mexico following a fall-out with her husband. The boys are initially resistant to her company but soon discover that Kathy is not your typical uptight divorced lady.

The boys’ Mexican adventure plays out through a series of comedic situations enriched with teen angst and mischief. The experiences introduce them to some harsh life lessons and a new understanding of relationships and human nature. This restless journey is filled with rebellious actions, conflicting morals, and unexpected twists and turns.

Cruise's portrayal of Dave further underlines his credibility as a star, delivering a nuanced performance as his moral compass constantly battles between right and wrong amid the temptations of Tijuana. It also showcases his susceptible side, presenting a young man hesitating to tread into manhood. Jackie Earle Haley is fantastic in his role as Spider, embodying the carefree spirit of a runaway teenager with his wild antics and rebellious character. John Stockwell acts as the 'big brother' figure of the group, providing the stability and maturity that contrast well with Cruise's and Haley's performances.

Shelley Long's character, Kathy, surfaces as an unexpected mentor, trying to guide the boys through these unpredictable circumstances. Her character portrays a unique mix of vulnerability and independence. Kathy serves as a breath of fresh air amid the young testosterone-driven trio and adds a more grounded perspective to the unfolding storyline that revolves around young boys wanting to become men.

From a technical standpoint, Losin' It is a well-crafted ride with comedy, drama, and nostalgia wrapped neatly in a film reel. Director Curtis Hanson uses the backdrop of Tijuana effectively, giving viewers a rich depiction of the era and location. The classic '60s rock and roll soundtrack further enhances the ambiance, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the time.

In essence, Losin' It is an entertaining exploration of adolescents on the brink of adulthood, facing the trials and tribulations of growing up. Among the countless '80s teen comedies, Losin' It achieves a unique voice of its own. Despite themes that may seem dated in a modern context, Losin' It still holds its charm. For audiences keen to revisit the '80s or for those exploring Tom Cruise's early career, this film has a captivating storyline and performances that make it worth the watch.