For today’s movie trailer, travel back to 1982 for what is the greatest teen comedy of all time: Fast Times at Ridgemont High. In the immortal words of Jeff Spicoli, it’s awesome! Adapted from Cameron Crowe‘s book (which is sadly long out-of-print but well worth seeking out), this fast and funny look at Southern California teen life from high school to the mall is highlighted by Sean Penn‘s performance as stoned surfer dude Jeff Spicoli. With Phoebe Cates, Judge Reinhold, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Ray Walston; look for Nicolas Cage, Anthony Edwards, Eric Stoltz and Forest Whitaker in early role. What makes Fast Times so memorable is how it doesn’t condescend to the characters, and showcases the complexities and good and bad of teen life in the 1980s. Director Amy Heckerling would go on to again capture the teenage zeitgeist in 1995’s Clueless, further proof that she has a unique talent for bringing youth culture to the multiplexes.
What’s your favorite moment from Fast Times at Ridgemont High? Let us know in the comments!