MOVIE REVIEW
Up the Creek (Special Edition) (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1984, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Robert Butler
Writer(s): Jim Kouf, Jeff Sherman, Douglas Grossman
Cast: Tim Matheson, Stephen Furst, Dan Monahan, John Hillerman, James B. Sikking, Sandy Helberg, Jeff East, Jennifer Runyon
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Navigating through the tumbling rapids of collegiate life, Bob McGraw (Tim Matheson,) a perennial fixture at LePetomaine University, steers through uproarious whitewater antics in UP THE CREEK. This cinematic splash, steeped in '80s comedy style, serves up a crew of quirky characters in a quest for academic glory. The film balances the scales between old-school slapstick and a fresh take on the underdog narrative; it offers everything that an '80s comedy should; as with most comedies like this, people need to understand they’re a product of their time.

In the picturesque settings of Oregon’s Deschutes River, UP THE CREEK tells its tale with a mix of wit and water. Matheson leads his band of collegiate archetypes: Max (Dan Monahan,) the love-struck suitor; Gonzer (Stephen Furst,) the insatiable eater; and Irwin (Sandy Helberg,) the awkward genius. This motley crew squares off against their gadget-equipped rivals from Ivy University, creating a high-stakes showdown that blends the absurd with the strategic. The opposing team’s high-tech antics bring a layer of cartoonish villainy to the competition, pushing the narrative into a lively, almost cartoonish realm.

The film remains true to its '80s roots, with the expected pranks and visual gags that define the era. Yet, it smartly sidesteps becoming a mere relic, thanks to Robert Butler’s direction, which carefully balances over-the-top humor with moments of genuine character insight. While the scenic backdrop invites admiration, the frantic, gadget-filled race scenes capture the film’s essence, mixing physical comedy with ingenuity.

Bob's canine companion, Chuck, unexpectedly steals the spotlight at times, providing comic relief and unexpected heroics that add to the film’s charm. The dynamic interplay among the competing teams infuses UP THE CREEK with a sense of adventure and engaging and humorously executed competitiveness. However, as the narrative progresses, some humor may seem a tad outdated to those without rose-colored glasses, with gags that resonate more with nostalgia than novelty.

Moreover, the film’s cinematography does a surprisingly excellent job of capturing the chaotic energy inherent in the rafting scenes. Wide shots effectively communicate the river's vast, untamed nature. At the same time, fast-paced edits maintain a brisk and engaging rhythm to the racing sequences, ensuring the visual dynamics complement the narrative's high stakes.

UP THE CREEK anchors itself as a thoroughly enjoyable escapade through the waters of '80s college comedy. With a lively and surprisingly forward-thinking performance from Jennifer Runyon as Heather Merriweather, the film ensures that the journey is entertaining. Rather than aspiring to redefine comedic boundaries, it embraces its identity as a lighthearted entertainment that knows its strengths and plays them well.

For those yearning for a taste of '80s nostalgia or newcomers curious about the comedic styles of the era, UP THE CREEK offers a refreshing dive into light-hearted antics and endearing misadventures. It stands out as a celebratory homage to an era of simpler pleasures, marking itself as a cult favorite that delivers laughs and a generous helping of retro charm.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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