A Refreshing Break from the Traditional Teen Comedy

Rating: 10/10 (27 March 2004)

While although knowingly remaking Risky Business and containing elements from both American Pie and Weird Science, this movie is very unique and in a class of its own. While of course containing the hilarious raunchy behavior necessary for a teen comedy, it also contains surpisingly good acting, timely one-liners, an intriguing story and a fantastic soundtrack. The editing and use of music in this movie is amazing. The story takes a look into the life of Matthew Kidman (Hirsch), an overlooked, overachieving high school senior who draws a blank when reflecting on his time in high school, shortly before graduation. His life suddenly changes when Danielle (Cuthbert), a beautiful and free spirited teen moves in next door to house-sit for her aunt. They immediately fall in love because they see things in each other that no one else sees. Their relationship is thrown a curveball by Matt's discovery that Danielle is a porn star trying to find a way out. The rest of the movie is Matt's quest to break Danielle out of the industry, much to the chagrin of her charismatic but overprotective porn producer Kelley (Olyphant). The movie then takes many more twists and turns and Matt brings his nerdy but adventurous sidekicks along for the ride, thus providing many moments of comic relief. The movie has many endearing qualities, and belongs in a genre by itself. All in all it is a great tale of living up to one's potential and can relate to people of all ages. A must see