Watch How I Got into College

"How I Got into College" is a coming-of-age romantic comedy from 1989 directed by Savage Steve Holland. The story centers around Marlon Browne (Corey Parker), a high school senior who is infatuated with his girlfriend Jessica Kailo (Lara Flynn Boyle) and is determined to follow her to her dream college, Ramsey College. Marlon, who is not exactly the smartest student, faces various obstacles on his way to getting into Ramsey College, including his guidance counselor, a rigorous SAT exam, and even his own father who wants him to follow his footsteps and become a turkey farmer. Despite all the setbacks, Marlon refuses to give up his dream and goes to extreme measures to secure a spot at Ramsey College.

Anthony Edwards delivers a great performance as the quirky, eccentric admissions officer, Stuart Sargent, who becomes Marlon's mentor and confidante throughout the admissions process. Sargent gives Marlon unconventional advice and encourages him to be himself, even if that means acting a little weird, to stand out from the rest of the applicants.

The movie's humor is a mix of slapstick, satire, and situational comedy, typical of Holland's style. There are several memorable scenes, like Marlon's interview with the Ramsey College Dean, where he accidentally spills a bottle of ketchup on his shirt and ends up making up an elaborate story about how a group of terrorists took him hostage and forced him to eat a burger covered in ketchup.

The film also touches on themes of self-discovery, identity, and the pressure young students face to conform to societal norms. Marlon realizes that he doesn't need to be someone he's not to get into college and that it's okay to pursue his own interests and passions, even if it means disappointing his parents and girlfriend.

One of the standout aspects of "How I Got into College" is its great soundtrack featuring artists like Lou Reed, XTC, and the Hoodoo Gurus. The music perfectly captures the feel-good, nostalgic tone of the film and adds to its overall charm.

Despite being almost 30 years old, the movie still has a lot of relevance and resonance today, particularly with the increasing competitiveness of college admissions and the pressure many high school students face to get into a prestigious school. "How I Got into College" offers a refreshing perspective on the college admissions process and emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself and pursuing your own dreams.

Overall, "How I Got into College" is an entertaining, light-hearted movie that is perfect for a lazy weekend afternoon or a cozy night in. It's got a great cast, memorable scenes, and a heartwarming message that still holds up after all these years.