I watched Back to School and I didn’t like it. 2/5
–
Back to School, directed by Alan Metter and starring Rodney Dangerfield, is a 1986 comedy film that attempts to blend humor with a dash of heart. While it has some memorable moments and a few laughs, the film ultimately falls short of its potential, resulting in a lackluster viewing experience.
The story follows Thornton Melon (Rodney Dangerfield), a successful businessman who decides to enroll in college alongside his son, Jason, in an effort to reconnect with him and experience the college life he never had. As Thornton navigates the world of higher education, he encounters various challenges, clashes with professors, and even manages to assemble a wacky team of misfit friends.
Rodney Dangerfield’s trademark wit and self-deprecating humor are undoubtedly the film’s strongest points. His one-liners and quick comebacks provide some genuinely funny moments that will elicit a chuckle or two. However, the humor often relies heavily on crude and predictable jokes, which may appeal to fans of Dangerfield’s style but can feel repetitive and stale for others.
While Dangerfield carries the film with his comedic charm, the supporting cast struggles to make a lasting impression. Characters like Jason (played by Keith Gordon) and Diane (played by Sally Kellerman) lack depth and come across as one-dimensional. Their performances feel forced and fail to evoke any genuine emotion or connection with the audience. Even the talented Burt Young and Ned Beatty, who play Thornton’s friends, are underutilized, adding little substance to the overall narrative.
Another significant flaw lies in the film’s inconsistent pacing and tonal shifts. At times, Back to School tries to convey heartfelt messages about family, following one’s dreams, and self-discovery. However, these attempts feel forced and overshadowed by the film’s reliance on cheap gags and slapstick humor. The mix of raunchy comedy and sentimental moments creates an awkward balance that never quite hits the mark.
Additionally, the film’s plot feels predictable and formulaic. It follows a typical underdog story with Thornton’s character facing various obstacles and ultimately triumphing over adversity. While this narrative structure can be effective when executed well, Back to School fails to bring anything new or refreshing to the table. It becomes evident early on how the story will unfold, leaving little room for surprises or genuine excitement.
From a technical standpoint, the film lacks visual flair and creativity. The direction is adequate but lacks a distinctive style or memorable visual sequences. The cinematography and production design are unremarkable, contributing to the overall lackluster atmosphere.
In conclusion, Back to School falls short of its potential as a comedy film. While Rodney Dangerfield’s performance delivers some laughs, the predictable plot, underdeveloped characters, and inconsistent tone hinder the overall experience. Fans of Dangerfield’s comedic style may find enjoyment in this film, but for others, it may feel like a missed opportunity for genuine humor and substance. It’s a forgettable entry in the comedy genre that doesn’t quite earn a passing grade.