The youth of today will never experience the gems of made-for-TV movies. Checking the newspaper guide. Blowing on a tape and plunging it into the VCR to record. And the iconic introductory theme songs. These are things I will never forget.
“High School U.S.A.” first aired on NBC on October 16, 1983. It is a silly comedy that runs 97 minutes – two hours in total sans the commercial breaks. Its style is reminiscent of “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” though more family friendly. And whilst not as memorable as the plethora of 80s high school movies that followed, it distinguishes itself with an ensemble cast loaded with sitcom stars of the era – one of which was on the precipice of Hollywood mega fame.
It’s the 80s
And the only thing better than the 80s, is getting to experience high school at that time. J.J. Manners (Michael J. Fox) is an uncool slacking teenager. Manners is infatuated with a beautiful classmate, Beth (Nancy McKeon) which draws the ire of her rich and popular boyfriend Beau (Anthony Edwards).
In 1983, Michael J. Fox was becoming famous for his role in the sitcom Family Ties. Fox was still two years away from “Back to the Future” which would vault him to stardom. Watching him here makes you appreciate and understand how talented he is as a comedic lead. He’s clever, charming, and has the perfect amount of low key posh to make him thoroughly likeable.
Sitcom Cast
The erst of the cast is a television all-star lineup. Fox’s co-star Nancy McKeon was well known for The Facts of Life. As was Laurie Hendler (Gimme a Break!) Todd Bridges and Dana Plato (Diff’rent Strokes). Crystal Bernard and Cathy Silvers (Happy Days) with Bernard also going on to star in Wings. Tony Dow, Frank Bank, and Ken Osmond (Leave It to Beaver). Elinor Donahue (Father Knows Best) and Dawn Wells and Bob Denver from Gilligan’s Island.
Fox aside, Anthony Edwards is the funniest character, perfectly playing the smarmy Beau Middleton. Edwards would go on to fame in the movie “Top Gun” and the 90s medical series, ER.
Oh, and did I mention? We get a hysterical performance from Crispin Glover as awkward nerd Archie Feld. Glover would go on to co-star with Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future.
“High School U.S.A.” is a great peak into a long gone and desirable world. I’m obsessed with the culture of the 80s. The fashion, style, décor, even the look of the classrooms. It’s a love definition pre-tech world and I love it. They weren’t trying to make an 80s movie. They were making a movie while living the dream of the 80s.
“High School U.S.A.” may be off your radar. Check it out for simplicity of the time and old school laughs.
