Some Kind of Wonderful (film)

Plot

The film is set against the strict social hierarchy of an American public high school. The tomboyish Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson) has always considered working class misfit Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz) her best friend. But when Keith asks out the most popular girl in school, Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson), Watts realizes she feels something much deeper for him. Meanwhile, Hardy Jenns (Craig Sheffer), Amandas Corvette-driving spoiled ex-boyfriend from the rich section of town, plans to cause trouble for Keith; although he has no real feelings for Amanda, he feels humiliated at losing her to a social inferior. However, Keith cunningly manages things to his own and Amandas advantage and gives Hardy his well-deserved comeuppance by simply telling him that by using his money to treat people like possessions and toys he will never know true happiness or have anyone in his life that will appreciate him for more than just his money and good looks. In the end, Amanda realizes that she needs time alone and Keith clues into Wattss feelings for him.

Cast

Production

Thompson had originally turned down the role, but changed her mind when the role was offered to her a second time as the film she did do—Howard the Duck—had turned out to be a major bomb.

Reception

The film was generally well received by critics. Review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes reported that 80% of critics gave it a positive rating, based on 35 reviews. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times praised the film, calling it worthwhile and entertaining. Janet Maslin of The New York Times stated that Some Kind of Wonderful is the "much-improved, recycled version of the Pretty in Pink story". Richard Schickel of Time, however, criticized the film for being unrealistic. Mastersons performance was singled out for praise by several critics.

Similar Movies

John Hughes wrote the screenplay for Some Kind of Wonderful and Pretty in Pink. Eric Stoltz and Chynna Phillips appear in Some Kind of Wonderful and Say Anything. Craig Sheffer appears in Some Kind of Wonderful and Fire with Fire. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012). Mary Stuart Masterson appears in Some Kind of Wonderful and Bed of Roses.

Soundtrack

1. "Do Anything" – Pete Shelley
2. "Brilliant Mind" – Furniture
3. "Cry Like This" – Blue Room
4. "I Go Crazy" – Flesh for Lulu
5. "She Loves Me" – Stephen Duffy
6. "The Hardest Walk" – The Jesus and Mary Chain
7. "The Shyest Time" – The Apartments
8. "Miss Amanda Jones" – The March Violets
9. "Cant Help Falling in Love" – Lick the Tins
10. "Turn to the Sky" – The March Violets