The Wolfman Cometh

Two words: American Graffiti. I just watched this movie, and I was astounded by how much I enjoyed it. I must say, whoever named it did not pick a decent enough title. However, no title could have given this movie the proper justice it deserves.

Here's the story: a bunch of teenagers cruise the California strip on graduation night, getting into fights, trying to steal booze, getting drunk off of the stolen booze, following around supposed prostitutes, being inducted into gangs, having cars stolen, stealing back cars, racing Harrison Ford, meeting elusive local legends, and of course, just plain cruising.

With a soundtrack that includes just about every song in my ultimate playlist, and Richard Dreyfuss as the conflicted main character, this movie is just classic.

Dreyfuss' character, Curtis, if conflicted about whether or not he's ready to leave home for college. And after following him around for the entire movie, the audience begins to see why. He leads quite a unique and somewhat enchanting lifestyle on the streets of California. But also, in following him around, we get to see that there is only so much that a person can accomplish in one city. Not to give anything more away, but Dreyfuss literally does everything that there is to do in his hometown, all in one night.

Ron, then Ronny, Howard's character, Steve, offers cruel insight into the life of the high school king. The quarterback for the football team, the prom king, the man's man, the ladies' man-- in the last area, however, we can see that he is sorely lacking, as his stereotypical character evolves into a jerk and a manipulator, who ultimately fails to succeed in any area.

My personal favorite is the dreamy John, a guy that got stuck on the strip, known as the best racer in town, and a total badass. His stereotypical character evolves just as much as Steve's does, but in a good way. We see the heart and soul of every 'trouble-maker' in John. We see how really, he envies the young and protects them with all he has.

It's a great coming-of-age movie, a fun ride, and a stereotype-imploding drama that will lead you to understand that there is only so much that one person can accomplish in one place.