Morgan Stewart's Coming Home

Morgan Stewart's Coming Home is a 1987 American comedy film directed by Terry Winsor and Paul Aaron. The film boasts a talented cast, including Jon Cryer, Lynn Redgrave, and JD Cullum.

Scriptwriters Ken Hixon and David N Gotterfeld concocted a mélange of comedy, romp, family drama, and teenage angst in their dive into an unpredictable world of a prep school boy reconnecting with his eccentric political parents after seven long years. The film succeeds in charming the audience with its brisk pacing, well-navigated plot changes, snappy dialogue and vibrant performances that together add considerable comic vitality.

Leading the cast is Jon Cryer as the eponymous Morgan Stewart, a spirited, eccentric teenager who is more comfortable penning up horror fanzines than worrying about state of affairs of his high-profile parents. Cryer's unique comedic style shines through the character of Morgan as he depicts his quirky interests, care-free disillusionment with the political sphere, and the struggle to reclaim a relationship with his parents after being so long apart.

Lynn Redgrave plays Nancy Stewart, Morgan's mother, with an eccentric flair that captures the surrealism of being a parent who is also a glamorous socialite with political responsibilities. Nancy appears distant, both emotionally and physically, from her son’s life but Redgrave's performance hints at the sentimentality hidden behind the facade of a scandal-prone politician’s spouse, providing a layer of depth to the character.

Completing the trio is JD Cullum as Jay Le Soto, Morgan's rebellious best friend who accompanies him on his journey to reclaim familial relationships and discover himself. Cullum's performance as the effortlessly cool and supportive friend confronts the clichéd 'sidekick' role, delivering an endearing performance that expands on his character's backstory, motivations, and feelings.

Morgan Stewart's Coming Home spins around the character Morgan, returning home after years spent at a boarding school to find that his family home isn't as he remembered. His parents have been busy climbing the political ladder, leaving little time for their only son. The task of reconnecting with his parents becomes even more complicated when a case of mistaken identity pits Morgan and his friend Jay in a comically absurd circumstance.

A quintessential 80’s film, Morgan Stewart's Coming Home encapsulates the spirit of the era. Its well-infused humor combined with a carefully woven storyline results in a wholesome viewing experience. This movie is particularly appreciable for its clever, multilayered comedy that offers both an amusing look into the exaggerated lifestyle of a political family and light yet insightful critique on the bureaucracy of political systems.

The film also praises individuality and the pursuit of personal passion through Morgan's unchanging love for horror and Jay's dedication to his own unique interests. The film beautifully balances lighter and heavier themes, presenting an endearing mix of comedy, adolescence, and family dynamics.

Although primarily a comedy, the movie aims to tug at the heartstrings as viewers witness a young man striving to reconnect with his parents amidst the dazzle and hustle of political glamour. The comedy doesn’t overshadow the poignant moments but instead amplifies them, striking a balance that is neither too shallow nor overly dramatic.

In terms of technical aspects, the movie successfully presents a visually compelling narrative through impressive cinematography that captures the contrast between Morgan's boarding school life and his extravagant household. The vibrant 80's-inspired soundtrack adds another fun layer to the film.

Despite having a plot placed in an elaborate political landscape, the film primarily focuses on personal relationships and growth. It does not get heavily embroiled in political statements but rather uses the political background as a prop to amplify the life of its main protagonist, Morgan. With this, it becomes a relatable, feel-good film for the audience that delivers humor and emotion in spades.

In closing, Morgan Stewart's Coming Home is a comedy full of life, weaving together heartwarming family relationships, teenage angst, and a generous helping of humor. With an outstanding cast, funny script, and a balance of light-hearted and poignant scenes, it offers viewers an enjoyable ride. The result is an underrated gem from the late 1980s that continues to entertain audiences with its unique charm, compelling characters, and irresistible comic timing.