Troop Beverly Hills

Troop Beverly Hills is a delightful 1989 comedy flick directed by Jeff Kanew. The movie features an impressive ensemble cast led by Shelley Long, with notable appearances by Craig T. Nelson and Betty Thomas. This brightly colored, light-hearted comedy takes viewers on a hilarious and unexpected adventure into the wilderness of the Beverly Hills lifestyle while simultaneously portraying the dynamics of girl scouting and the essence of camaraderie and personal growth that it provides.

Shelley Long, best known for her role in the TV series "Cheers", brings her mirth to the big screen as Phyllis Nefler, a glamorous and high-spirited Beverly Hills socialite. Phyllis, who's in the process of going through a separation from her wealthy husband, Freddy Nefler, portrayed by Craig T. Nelson, is seen attempting to find her purpose and inner strength amidst her pampered lifestyle and impending divorce. Freddy questions Phyllis's ability to finish anything she starts, a criticism that makes her resolve to prove herself.

When Phyllis's daughter, Hannah, expresses her interest in joining the Wilderness Girls scout troop, Phyllis takes on the challenge of becoming the leader of Troop Beverly Hills—a group of privilege-laden daughters of the LA elite. This rag-tag of spoilt, yet adorable girls don’t seem to fit into the conventional idea of scouts. The cinch lies in the fact that Phyllis herself is far from having any outdoorsy or survival skills typically associated with scouting. However, tireless in her efforts, she remains determined to instill within these girls what truly stands at the kernel of scouting: friendship, responsibility, and resilience.

Much of the humor comes from the hilarious clashes of Beverly Hills extravagance with Wilderness Girl practicality. Phyllis, with her flair for luxury influences 'camping' trips that take place in bungalows, designing matching outfits for troop appearances, organizing morale-boosting makeovers and enlisting the help of an exclusive Beverly Hills boutique while teaching them how to be 'thrifty'. This draws the derision of the snobbish Velda Plendor, leader of a rival troop and a stickler for the traditional rules of scouting, impressively performed by Betty Thomas.

“Troop Beverly Hills” displays just the right mix of the affluent lifestyle of Beverly Hills and traditional scouting values as embodied by the Wilderness Girls. The majority of the movie's appeal comes from Shelley Long's infectious spirit seen in her unforgettable portrayal of Phyllis Nefler. Her transformation from a woman incapable of breaking even her nails, into a responsible girl scout leader who invigorates and motivates her troops, is heartwarming to watch.

The girls in the Troop, each with their unique personality and rich backstory, are another significant part of the film. While they might be viewed as stereotypical and possibly spoilt Beverly Hills' kids initially, they evolve into earnest Wilderness Girls, embodying the values taught by their determined leader. They learn the power of teamwork, the beauty of genuine friendships, and life skills- lessons that extend far beyond their Beverly Hills bubble.

Craig T. Nelson also gives a strong performance as the skeptical soon-to-be-ex-husband. He convincingly plays the role of a successful businessman, who amidst his own challenges, gains a newfound respect for his wife as he witnesses her determination and leadership skills unfold.

With its vibrant 80s glam, picturesque Beverly Hills setting, dynamic characters, and timeless comedic charm, Troop Beverly Hills stands as a classic in the comedy genre. Despite its lighthearted tone, the movie conveys a meaningful message - the importance of perseverance, true friendship, and acquiring real-world skills outside our comfort zones. It's a fun-filled romp that can be enjoyed by both children and adults, making it a perfect choice for a family movie night.