Back to School, released in theaters on June 13, 1986, is a quintessential Rodney Dangerfield vehicle, perfectly showcasing his unique brand of self-deprecating humor and larger-than-life personality. The film is a laugh-out-loud romp that blends generational clashes with academic absurdity, delivering a consistently funny and surprisingly charming experience.
The story centers on Thornton Melon (Rodney Dangerfield), a flamboyant, uneducated millionaire and owner of a successful chain of tall-and-fat clothing stores. When his shy and academically struggling son, Jason (Keith Gordon), threatens to drop out of college, Thornton decides on a drastic measure: he enrolls alongside Jason as a freshman, hoping to motivate him and prove that anything is possible with enough money and a can-do attitude.
His arrival at the stuffy university sends shockwaves through the campus, as Thornton’s unconventional study habits, lavish parties, and disdain for academic rigor clash hilariously with the traditional collegiate environment.
He hires professionals to write his papers, cheats on tests, and even tries to charm his English professor, Diane Turner (Sally Kellerman), all while trying to bond with his embarrassed son.
Dangerfield is in peak form as Thornton Melon, delivering his signature one-liners with effortless comedic timing. He makes Thornton a lovable rogue whose crude charm and unexpected wisdom win over everyone, eventually.
Kellerman is delightful as Professor Diane Turner, providing a sophisticated foil to Thornton’s antics and a surprising romantic interest.
Gordon is perfectly cast as Jason, the earnest son who navigates his father’s embarrassing presence with a mix of frustration and growing admiration.
Robert Downey Jr., in an early role, is fantastic as Derek Lutz, Jason’s eccentric and insightful roommate, bringing his unique brand of quirky humor.
William Zabka and Burt Young provide solid supporting turns as antagonists and a disgruntled dean, respectively.
Terry Farrell, Sam Kinison, M. Emmett Walsh and Ned Beatty also contribute to the film’s memorable cast.
Director Alan Metter orchestrates the comedic chaos with a light touch, allowing Dangerfield’s improvisational style to shine.
The screenplay, by Harold Ramis, Peter Torokvei, and Steven Kampmann (from a story by Dangerfield, Greg Fields, and Dennis Snee), is sharp and witty, capitalizing on the generational and class differences for maximum comedic effect. The film’s humor is broad but often clever, satirizing academia, the pursuit of wealth, and the awkwardness of father-son relationships. The iconic diving sequence and the chaotic final exam are particular highlights.
Rodney Dangerfield and Keith Gordon in Back to School (Photo/Orion Pictures)
Reception for Back to School
Back to School grossed $8.9 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, topping Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ($6.27 million) and Top Gun ($6.25 million).
The film would gross $91.3 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
Back to School is a triumphant comedy that proves Dangerfield was a true comedic genius. It’s a film that delivers consistent laughs, a heartwarming message about family and unconventional learning, and a memorable cast of characters. For anyone looking for a feel-good comedy that’s both hilarious and surprisingly sweet, Back to School is an absolute riot that earns full marks.
