Better Off Dead... (1985, dir. Savage Steve Holland)

Better Off Dead... (1985, dir. Savage Steve Holland)

What Is It?: An absurdist treat about a jilted high schooler, Lane Meyer, played by an absurdly young John Cusack.

What About It?: A deeply ridiculous and truly funny film, easily a peak of the 80's teen comedy, before the myriad attempts to make the genre "“serious"”, like with Cameron Crowe's Say Anything.... This movie is not based in any kind of reality, outside of the pitch being reminiscent of the way teens often feel, one may remember, maybe.

Why Should I See It?: Eminently quotable, exceedingly well written and directed, this is light entertainment at its best. Cusack is great as the beleaguered Lane and the supporting cast is uniformly excellent. Kim Darby, as Lane's heavily medicated Mother is both terrific and disturbing. Dan Schneider as Ricky? Sheer greatness. The paper boy? I want my two dollars. This movie is hella.

What Else Is It Like?: One Crazy Summer, Real Genius, Three O'Clock High.

When Is It Playing Until ON DEMAND?: 10/26/06

Watch It ON DEMAND on Comcast Cable.

-- ddt/pdx