The Heavenly Kid

Heavenly Kid is a supernatural comedy-drama film from 1985, directed by Cary Medoway. It introduces an engaging plot that flawlessly combines humor, drama, and a bit of juvenile delinquency, reflecting the quintessential mid-80s. The movie stars the very talented Lewis Smith, Jason Gedrick, and Jane Kaczmarek in leading roles.

The film opens with Lewis Smith playing the character of Bobby Fontana, a rebellious teenager with a love for fast cars and rock-and-roll music. Set in the 1960s, Bobby's life takes an unexpected turn when he dies during a dangerous drag race. The streets of Heaven's Way Station become his new home, a transit lounge for the deceased awaiting their final judgment. The movie uses an impressive set to portray this intermediate world between heaven and hell.

Bobby, caught in this purgatory, hasn't earned his spot in heaven yet because of his reckless lifestyle. To redeem himself and earn his place in paradise, he's given the task to return to Earth as a guardian angel. With the guidance of his quirky heavenly mentor Rafferty, played by Richard Mulligan, Bobby starts his mission aiming at self-improvement and soul-salvation.

The beneficiary of his heavenly guidance happens to be Lenny Barnes, a high schooler, portrayed by Jason Gedrick. Lenny is the exact opposite of what Bobby was when he was alive: kind-hearted, shy, and not exactly popular. Bobby quickly realizes that teaching Lenny to find his courage, self-assurance, and to stand up against bullies might be a harder task than he initially thought. In addition to being Lenny's new mentor in life’s challenges, Bobby soon encounters complex emotional challenges of his own that he didn’t anticipate.

Jane Kaczmarek, known for her later role in "Malcolm in the Middle," brilliantly portrays Emily Barnes, Lenny's mother. Emily is portrayed as a woman marked by the past who struggles with the budding changes she sees in her son. Her character’s heartfelt performance adds depth and emotional richness to the movie.

"Heavenly Kid" takes viewers on a fascinating journey exploring the themes of redemption, transformation, and life after death. The film highlights the powerful influence a role model can have on self-improvement. The sprinkled humor throughout the movie does not undermine the depth of these universal life themes - instead, the humor complements it, reflecting a refreshing view of the afterlife and the whole process of learning from past mistakes.

The film's rock-and-roll soundtrack, fast cars, and 60s greaser culture, cross-mixed with the 80s high school vibe, is a real treat. Aesthetically, the film captures the cultural elements of both decades convincingly.

"Heavenly Kid" possesses a blend of comedy, drama, coming-of-age lessons, and supernatural novelty, which makes it worth watching. Lewis Smith’s charismatic performance as both a roguish greaser and a repenting guardian angel is impressive, as is Jason Gedrick’s character transformation from an awkward teen to a self-confident young man. Jane Kaczmarek's emotional depth gives the movie a heartfelt essence.

The movie has successfully survived the test of time. It is still enjoyed and appreciated by both the older audience that might find a nostalgic charm in this film and the younger viewers who appreciate it for its timeless life lessons and enjoyable narrative.

So, if you're looking for a film that perfectly combines comedy, sentiment, and a touch of the supernatural, then look no further than "Heavenly Kid." It's a film that proves that even after death, there might still be a chance to make things right, learn, grow, and get a second chance to find redemption and self-worth.