American Graffiti

Starring: Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Harrison Ford, Suzanne Sommers
Directed by: George Lucas
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
1973

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary:The story revolves around several high schoolers on the eve of graduation, as they deal with the prospect of leaving home for college.

Review:

Tim: The most obvious high point to note with this film is the excellent use of music throughout to compliment the movie. It really sets the mood and the time.

American Graffiti has some amazing acting talent and actors like Richard Dreyfuss and Ron Howard (who, humorously enough, is billed, "Ronny Howard" here) portray very likeable characters. You do almost immediately identify with the people on screen. However, the plot of the film is so slow that after an hour or so, you are really struggling to still identify with the characters, instead of shouting, "Just do something already!" Richard Dreyfuss is absolutely excellent in the film. His is the best character, the most identifiable, and the one you most want to see on screen. I suppose the movie really centers around Howard's character and his girlfriend. Dreyfuss isn't on screen as much as I'd like. It should also be noted that this film marked the teaming up of two of Hollywood's greatest, George Lucas (directing) and Francis Ford Coppolla (producing).

I suppose this film does accurately encapture the feelings right before leaving for college the first time. That in itself is an achievement. It is rather interesting to see old friends dealing and coping with the coming changes that life brings.

The best scenes in the movie are the ones with Dreyfuss and Howard together. Sadly, there are too few of them in the movie. Also, this film, which is supposed to be "timeless," very often felt dated. I know this is a classic film and beloved by many Americans. I can see why they like it, yet for me, it was too long and not entertaining enough. This is a good movie, and should be seen by any who claim to love movies. Just don't expect too much.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 6.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Jaws, A.I.: Artificial Intelligence, Grease