How I Got Into College (1989)

How I Got Into College Poster

The simple story of two young Michigan high school students, Jessica, Class President, Local Smart Girl, and object of Marlon's affections attempt to get into a small Pennsylvania college. Jessica fights off her parent's expectation of going to their alma mater of the University of Michigan, while Marlon fights his grades and SAT scores.

Introduction to "How I Entered into College"
"How I Entered into College" is a 1989 romantic funny film directed by Savage Steve Holland and written by Terrel Seltzer. The movie focuses on the anxieties and pressures of the college application process, translucented the lenses of various high school students. It stars Anthony Edwards, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Corey Parker, in a narrative that mixes wholehearted moments with slapstick humor.

Plot Overview
The story is centered around Marlon Browne (played by Corey Parker), a somewhat typical high school senior with no specific identifying scholastic or extracurricular accomplishments. Despite this, Marlon has set his sights on entering Ramsey College, an Ivy League-like institution. Nevertheless, his motivation is not geared by academic goals but by his romantic pursuit of Jessica Kailo (played by Lara Flynn Boyle), a clever and enthusiastic trainee who is using to the very same school.

As Marlon strives to win over the admissions committee-- and Jessica's heart-- his journey becomes an expedition of the eccentric and frequently outrageous elements of the college admissions process. He gets conflicting advice from good friends, family, and a trio of diverse college counselors who all have their own twisted approaches of assisting students get approval to distinguished schools.

In a parallel story, we satisfy Kip Louden (played by Anthony Edwards), an admissions officer at Ramsey who starts to question the fairness of the college admissions criteria after his interactions with Marlon and other applicants. Kip, a straight-laced and by-the-book character, has problem with his own developing sensations for fellow admissions officer, Nina (played by Finn Carter). His character goes through an improvement as he recognizes that numbers and achievements do not constantly capture the true worth of a prospective trainee.

Themes and Message
The movie satirizes the often nerve-wracking college admissions procedure, poking fun at the lengths students and parents want to go to secure an area at a distinguished university. It highlights the randomness and absurdity of college admissions, suggesting that the system is flawed and does not properly show a student's capacity.

Regardless of its comedic overtones, "How I Got Into College" delivers a positive message about self-respect and perseverance. It motivates audiences to question the idea that an individual's value is defined by being accepted into a top-tier organization. The core of the film is its heartfelt reminder that passion, imagination, and authentic interest can in some cases overshadow an excellent resume.

Reception and Legacy
When "How I Got Into College" was launched, it received mixed evaluations from critics but has actually because acquired a cult following for its eccentric humor and special take on the college admissions saga. Audiences have actually appreciated the movie for its light-hearted technique to a demanding period in a young adult's life and its relatable characters.

Although not one of the era's blockbuster hits, the film did add to the late 1980s trend of teen funnies with a message. It opened conversations about the value of education and the importance of remaining true to oneself in the face of social pressures. The motion picture can be seen as a precursor to future movies and television programs that would explore the theme of college admissions, each adding its spin on what has become an evergreen subject of interest.

Conclusion
"How I Got Into College" is a comedic romp that catches the hysteria of college admissions, encapsulating the spirit of young adulthood and love with a side of societal review. It mixes humor with heart, leaving the audience to consider both the pleasures and follies of chasing dreams worldwide of college. Through its caricature of the admission process and the psychological rollercoaster it represents, the movie stays a lovely and relevant commentary on the pursuit of college education.

Top Cast

  • Anthony Edwards (small)
    Anthony Edwards
    Kip Hammett
  • Corey Parker (small)
    Corey Parker
    Marlon Browne
  • Lara Flynn Boyle (small)
    Lara Flynn Boyle
    Jessica Kailo
  • Finn Carter (small)
    Finn Carter
    Nina Sachie
  • Gary Owens (small)
    Gary Owens
    Sports Announcer (voice)
  • Charles Rocket (small)
    Charles Rocket
    Leo Whitman
  • Christopher Rydell (small)
    Christopher Rydell
    Oliver
  • Brian Doyle-Murray (small)
    Brian Doyle-Murray
    Coach Evans
  • Tichina Arnold (small)
    Tichina Arnold
    Vera Cook
  • Bill Raymond (small)
    Bill Raymond
    Flutter
  • Philip Baker Hall (small)
    Philip Baker Hall
    Dean Patterson