She's Out of Control

She's Out of Control is a 1989 American comedy film that interweaves the themes of parental concerns, teenage anxiety, relationships, and coming of age. The movie is directed by Stan Dragoti and stars Tony Danza, Catherine Hicks, and Wallace Shawn in pivotal roles.

Set in sunny California, the film revolves around the life of radio executive Doug Simpson (played by Tony Danza). Doug single-handedly juggles his professional demands while raising his two daughters following his divorce. Life seems to go on at a moderate pace until the day he comes home from a business trip to observe an astonishing transformation in his older daughter, Katie (Ami Dolenz). It appears that the shy and bespectacled Katie has had an ultra-feminine makeover, transforming from a nerdy duckling into a stunning swan. Grappling with the sudden change, he's faced with the unsettling truth that his little girl is growing up and attracting the attention of the opposite sex.

As the movie progresses, we see the panic-stricken Dad, Doug, desperately attempting to gain control over this unforeseen situation. He is taken aback by the line of potential suitors that seem to crop out of nowhere to vie for Katie's attention. This leads to a series of humorous and heart-warming incidents that form the crux of the film's storyline.

Tony Danza delivers a fantastic performance, cleverly portraying an overly concerned father who is not ready to let go, yet. Known for his charm and quick wit, Danza uses his comedic flair to draw out laughter and empathy from the audience. His comedic timing is matched flawlessly by Catherine Hicks, who plays the wannabe stepmother and Doug's girlfriend, Janet Pearson. Her role serves as the voice of reason and calm in the turbulent sea of Doug's overblown anxieties.

Ami Dolenz lights up the screen with her captivating performance as Katie. Her character's transformation becomes the central plot of the film, offering viewers much to ponder about the hurdles of teenage life and beyond. Equally hilarious is Wallace Shawn, who is essaying the role of Dr. Fishbinder, a child psychiatrist. He provides some incredibly amusing moments as he offers outrageous advice on parenting, adding a vibrant touch to the storyline.

She's Out of Control is as much about the teenage metamorphosis as it is about parenthood, particularly the trials and tribulations of being a single father. It throws light on the dynamics of a modern family, where raising children can often be a roller-coaster ride of emotions - fear, love, worry, and sometimes, hilarity.

Dragoti’s direction shines through in the way he has fused humor with touching moments of real-life concerns, dealing with the subject matter using a hands-on approach. With a soundtrack that includes some great 80s pop classics, every scene of this film is imbued with a certain nostalgia and warmth.

Despite the film’s distinctly late-80s vibe, its theme of the turmoil of growing up, parental worries, teenage angst, and family bonding has universal resonance. The comedic elements of the film make the narrative fresh and alive, ensuring that the movie does not lapse into a dreary monologue on parenting and adolescence.

In summary, She's Out of Control stands out as an entertaining comedy about life's trials and tribulations, delivering laughter and thought-provoking insights in equal doses. The film, with its robust performances and articulate storytelling, captures the essence of familial love that transcends the boundaries of age and time. It's a classic tale of over-protective parenthood, of a daughter's struggle to fit into new roles, and of the often hilariously messy path of personal growth. Watch She's Out of Control to unravel an engaging comedy about an over-anxious father and his beautiful daughter, flitting around the fragile boundaries of love and control.