As we attempt to prepare for our graduation we deal with the anticipation by looking at the pop cultural representations of this college experience. In regards to this we’ve assembled ten of the best college films to remind us of this monumental achievement we have accomplished. This list is, of course, is in no particular order.
Slackers. Devin Sawa and his gang of misfits can accomplish any task, especially if it involves cheating. That is until the groups leader, Dave, falls head over heels for a beautiful coed. Imagine Oceans 11 meets Harold and Kumar.
Good Will Hunting. Ever notice that when ever Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are in a film they get top billing and the trailers mention that they are both Academy Award winners. Yeah, this is why. This incredibly directed and written film would have sweeped the Oscars that year but they had the misfortune of going against Titanic in most catagories.
Revenge of the Nerds. Cinema in the eighties seem to focus on cliques and classes. This film recognized that and made fun of it. Since, being a geek or nerd has become fashionable, but in the eighties it was a social death sentence.
Old School. Beyond funny, this movie made everyone want to join a fake frat and streak the quad with Frank The Tank. Sure, most of the people are older in this film but have you ever noticed that the average age at our fine institution is older than a quarter of a century.
Back to School. Another 80’s film. Jason Melon has let the stresses of school life get to him and is considering quitting. His father, played by Rodney Dangerfield, is a successful business man and joins up himself. Despite the humor that ensues, it would be nice if parents would join us in this journey of higher education. We all know they tend to need it.
Animal House. Back when the name National Lampoon actually pulled some weight. The ultimate classic college film. This film was thrown together with a measly budget and was the starting point for some big Hollywood hot shots. If you haven’t or heard of Animal House then you probably graduated before it was released.
Real Genius. Val Kilmer made all of us want to have a genius IQ and go against those who would threaten to use are talents. Or if we had the braniac intelliegence this film made us desire Kilmer’s relaxed attitude towards studies.
Higher Learning. Probably the best film in regards to showcasing the potential of any student. With so many aspects of the college life experience we can get lost in the maze of finding ourselves. Occasionally a few people fall through the cracks. This film showcases that possibility.
Rudy. One college football movie had to make it on to this list. Determination and dreaming big are the heart and soul of this true story. Few of us are lucky enough to truly know what we want to do with our life, even fewer are able to experience it. Daniel Ruettiger goes through the journey of making that happen.
Rule of Attraction. Without a doubt the most stylish and hip of this lists picks. The adapted story is a collision course of lives and fates for a group of party hunger students. If you are to rewatch any of these classic films make sure this one is one you watch.