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'Youngblood and Class'

M. Williams | Cardiff | 03/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Teenage angst was a popular theme for directors during the nineteen eighties, with films such as 'St. Elmo's Fire', 'The Outsiders', and 'The Breakfast Club' dominating our video rental stores and television screens. Cinemagoers had been introduced to a fresh bunch of actors, known predominantly through media circles as 'the brat pack'. Rob Lowe, the star of 'Class' and 'Youngblood', was one of these new and talented young actors.'Class' tells the story of two Ivy League students participating in the kind of irresponsible antics associated with adolescence: late night trips to the nearby girls' school, using fake ID in order to buy alcohol, and smoking after 'lights out'. Foxfield is a fun place to be.But the film has its dark side. Skip (Rob Lowe, 'Oxford Blues', 'The Outsiders'), is the self-confident joker, whose intention is to get into Harvard with as little effort - and as much fun - as possible. Although his parents are disgustingly wealthy, they are unhappy. Skip is aware of this, but nevertheless hides his fears and concerns behind an ostentatious exterior. Jonathan (Andrew McCarthy, 'Catholic Boys', 'Less than Zero', 'Pretty in Pink')finds Skip's overbearing personality hard to deal with at times. He is awkard and clumsy, lacking the charm and confidence exuded by his handsome roommate. Things change for Jonathan when he takes a trip to New York, but the change is transitory, and the tone of the movie rapidly adopts a melancholy atmosphere from that point onwards. There are some memorable moments in 'Class', most notably the fight between Skip and Jonathan. The director has juxtaposed the humor and seriousness skilfully, and has succeeded in producing an entertaining and enjoyable teen film. Also stars Jaqueline Bissett, Cliff Robertson, John Cusack, Alan Ruck, and Casey Seimasko.'Youngblood' sees Rob Lowe teaming up with Patrick Swayze ('The Outsiders', 'Red Dawn') for this ice hockey film that oozes testosterone. It is the story of a talented young ice hockey player who is offered a chance to play the sport professionally. But possessing a stubborn and highly strung character, can he succeed? If he fails, he will end up back on the family farm, somewhere out in the boondocks. 'Youngblood' offers action, drama, and romance. And Hockey. Also stars Ed Lauter, Cynthia Gibb, and Keanu Reeves.This DVD is a worthwhile investment, as both films compensate for the limited extras."