Better Off Dead

Starring: John Cusack, David Ogden Stiers, Kim Darby
Directed by: Savage Steve Holland
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy
1985

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A teenager (John Cusack) is dumped by his girlfriend, is harassed by a psychotic paperboy, and pretty much has his entire life fall apart around him. Would he be better off dead, or can he concoct a plan to turn his fortunes around?

Review:

Tim: Can suicide be funny? Probably not, but this film takes something like the contemplation of suicide by our main character, and keeps everything lighthearted enough that we actually do find the whole premise- and the movie- pretty funny.

A huge, heaping pile of praise needs to go to the cast, primarily to John Cusack. He is one of the greatest everymen to grace the screen, and he's fantastic here. He draws us in, and with his likeable charm, we're entranced. The rest of the cast is good enough to help the film, but none are outstanding, and no one really stands out.

The film has a series of memorable, funny moments. We have a drug-crazed friend that snorts snow, a crazy sky ride, fantasy elements like talking food, a Japanese exchange student who does a perfect imitation of Howard Casell, and a psychotic paperboy willing to kill for his $2. These are moments that stand out in our mind, make us laugh, and entertain us.

This movie is entertaining, but not as good as some of its contemporaries. Chiefly, this isn't as good as Say Anything, another film starring Cusack. Still, this movie is better than others, and should do a fairly good job at entertaining you.

Better Off Dead is a cult movie that has gained a greater following. Its quirky and offbeat themes give it an original and unique flavor that should be refreshing to anyone who is tired of the same old movies. Despite its flaws, this is still a strong film, featuring Cusack in a perfect role for all his strengths. This has grown in popularity over the years and it is sure to at least eep you entertained over the duration.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Say Anything, The Sure Thing, One Crazy Summer