Quirky Tale From Myth to Mainstream

Read Time:3 Minute, 56 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Big Man on Campus
–

Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Year Released: 1989, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director(s): Jeremy Kagan
Writer(s): Allan Katz
Cast: Corey Parker, Allan Katz, Cindy Williams, Melora Hardin, Gerrit Graham, Jessica Harper, Tom Skerritt, John Finnegan, Armin Shimerman
Where To Watch: available May 21, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Stepping into an entirely different period of comedy experience that was the late 80s and early 90s, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS takes the tale of the hunchback narrative with an aged but heartfelt twist. This movie not only revives and revamps the story for a new generation at the time, making every scene a blend of quirky and lighthearted but still something that wouldn’t be done today.

In BIG MAN ON CAMPUS, the story of the misunderstood “outcast” takes a comedic turn, bringing the hunchback from the shadows of gothic lore to the bright lights of a university campus. Centered around Bob (Allan Katz,) who has secretly lived in a university clock tower, his existence transforms from campus legend to tangible reality, setting off humorous and heartwarming events.

As we start on this cinematic spectacle, we are transported back to the vibrant cultural milieu of the late '80s and early '90s. The film, written by and starring Allan Katz, attempts to balance between humor and emotional beats that tug at the heartstrings. Katz portrays Bob with finesse, innocence, and charm, yet his portrayal remains distinctively nuanced.

The screenplay cleverly sets its scene at a college campus while the cameras roll across the grounds, adding a subtle twist to the film's backdrop. This setting is a dynamic landscape where Bob's journey from isolation to campus celebrity unfolds. His interactions with Alex, portrayed with a compelling mix of bemusement and warmth by Corey Parker, highlight the transformative effects of Bob's unconventional personality on traditional college life.

The ensemble cast, including standout performances by Jessica Harper and Tom Skerritt, brings a welcome variety to the narrative. Melora Hardin, in particular, shines as Cathy, whose relationship with Bob reminds us of the themes of acceptance and connection that pulse at the story's heart.

Navigating through vignettes rather than a traditional narrative arc, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS sidesteps the traps of slapstick to focus on character-driven humor and situational comedy. This approach enriches the viewer's experience and endears Bob to the audience, making his quirks and trials something to root for rather than merely observe.

Despite its challenges, including a direct-to-video release due to the studio's financial instability at the time, the film demonstrates the core pieces of a cult classic. Its blend of unique comedic elements, engaging character dynamics, and inherent quirkiness lay the groundwork for enduring appeal.

BIG MAN ON CAMPUS emerged as a beacon of simple, compelling storytelling. It invited viewers to partake in the joys and jests of its characters, providing a refreshing break from complex, high-stakes narratives. Although we must remember that the film is a product of its time, I often return to this statement, but it’s an essential piece of context. Especially in film and literature, we must look at these pieces as historical documents and in the correct context.

BIG MAN ON CAMPUS celebrates individuality and the comedic yet profound journey toward acceptance. While it may not fit the standard mold for a typical movie, for those who discover its charm, it promises a uniquely entertaining and heartwarming experience that underscores our humanity's diverse quirks.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. You can also find my social media accounts on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.