MOVIE REVIEW
Homework
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Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 1982, 2024 Unearthed Classics Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): James Beshears
Writer(s): Maurice Peterson, Don Safran
Cast: Joan Collins, Erin Donovan, Michael Morgan, Lee Purcell, Wings Hauser, Carrie Snodgress
Where To Watch: available June 25, 2024; pre-order here www.unearthedfilms.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: HOMEWORK, directed by James Beshears, ventures ambitiously into the realm of teen comedies infused with coming-of-age elements. The movie centers around high school senior Tommy, portrayed with naive enthusiasm by Michael Morgan, who focuses more on personal growth through music than academic achievement. He and his friend Ralph, played by Lanny Horn, start a band, forming the core of the storyline.

The film introduces a comedic twist with the character Lisa, played by Shell Kepler, who becomes the lead singer not due to her singing prowess but because the more talented Sheila, played by Erin Donovan, is unavailable. This switch offers a light-hearted take on the often necessary compromises in adolescent life.

A subplot features Joan Collins as Diane, Sheila's mother, adding a layer of complexity with her unsettling interest in Tommy. While intriguing, this subplot sometimes clashes with the film’s lighter tone and edges toward cliché, challenging the overall balance.

Further controversial elements arise with Tommy's questionable interactions with his school counselor, played by Carrie Snodgress, and Lee Purcell's portrayal of a French teacher with dubious ethics. These elements, reflective of the film's era, introduce darker themes that occasionally feel misplaced.

While HOMEWORK aims to blend humor with darker teenage realities, it often misses the mark. The dialogue can seem forced, and the comedic elements fall flat, distancing the audience from genuinely connecting with the characters. Set in the vibrant 1980s, the film sometimes struggles to match the depth and entertainment value of that era's more successful teen movies.

The conclusion of Tommy's journey lacks the emotional resonance expected from a pivotal moment of self-discovery, leaving the narrative feeling incomplete. Additionally, behind-the-scenes disputes and controversies regarding the authenticity of performances, notably using a body double for Collins, add some intrigue and depth to the film. The production team's idea to capitalize on Collins's fame at the time was interesting, although morally, it fell into a grey area.

Despite its shortcomings, HOMEWORK does showcase a few standout moments, particularly in its earnest attempt to capture the essence of teenage life. Morgan, as Tommy, delivers moments of genuine charm that hint at potential unfulfilled by the script. Similarly, the soundtrack, featuring quintessential '80s music, occasionally lifts the film, imbuing it with a nostalgic appeal that resonates with fans of the era. These elements suggest that with more polished direction and a coherent narrative, the film could have significantly better leveraged its thematic ambitions.

In conclusion, HOMEWORK navigates the turbulent waters of teenage experience with a mix of ambition and hesitation. While it stumbles at times in its execution, leaving some narrative threads frayed and others overly contrived, it nonetheless reflects a genuine effort to capture the complex tapestry of adolescence. The film’s intent and the occasional sparkle of engaging moments provide a glimpse into what might have been a more cohesive and impactful exploration of youth. As it stands, HOMEWORK serves as a learning curve in storytelling that may hold lessons for future cinematic endeavors in the teen genre.

Bonus Materials
Interview with legendary producer Max Rosenberg
Photo Gallery
Trailers

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[photo courtesy of UNEARTHED CLASSICS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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