Can’t Hardly Wait, released in theaters on June 12, 1998, is a vibrant, chaotic, and ultimately charming snapshot of the anxieties and hopes surrounding high school graduation. The film is a delightful time capsule of late 90s youth culture, filled with humor, heart, and a relatable quest for connection.
The entire film unfolds over a single, momentous graduation party, where various interconnected storylines weave together amidst a sea of hormones, last-chance confessions, and drunken antics. Preston Meyers (Ethan Embry), the hopelessly romantic lead, plans to finally declare his undying love for the popular and beautiful Amanda Beckett (Jennifer Love Hewitt) before she leaves for college.
Meanwhile, Kenny Fisher (Seth Green), the resident party animal, is determined to lose his virginity, while the jock Mike Dexter (Peter Facinelli) struggles to cope with his decision to break up with Amanda. Around these central figures, a sprawling cast of archetypes and misfits grapple with their own adolescent dilemmas, from nerdy William Lichter (Charlie Korsmo) seeking revenge on Mike, to Denise Fleming (Lauren Ambrose) finally confronting her best friend Kenny, and a myriad of other students trying to make the most of their last night together.
Embry brings a sweet, earnest vulnerability to Preston, making him a sympathetic protagonist.
Hewitt is radiant as Amanda, effortlessly portraying the popular girl with hidden insecurities.
Green is a comedic powerhouse as Kenny, delivering scene-stealing lines and manic energy.
Facinelli perfectly embodies the arrogant jock Mike Dexter.
Jaime Pressly and Tamala Jones are hilarious as Amanda’s shallow friends Beth and Cindi.
Jason Segel, and Selma Blair also contribute memorable performances, rounding out a cast that effectively captures the diverse personalities of a graduating class.
Directors Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan, who also wrote the screenplay, expertly juggle the numerous interconnected storylines, maintaining a fast pace and a consistent tone. The humor is a mix of witty dialogue, physical comedy, and relatable observations about the awkwardness of adolescence.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to tap into the universal feelings of excitement, fear, and longing that define the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. While it embraces many teen movie tropes, it does so with affection and a genuine understanding of its characters’ struggles and aspirations.
Can’t Hardly Wait‘s soundtrack, packed with popular 90s hits, further enhances the nostalgic atmosphere.
Ethan Embry and Jennifer Love Hewitt in Can’t Hardly Wait (Photo/Sony Pictures)
Reception for Can’t Hardly Wait
Can’t Hardly Wait grossed $8 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office.
The film would gross $25.6 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
Can’t Hardly Wait is a fun, nostalgic, and genuinely charming teen comedy that perfectly encapsulates the chaotic energy of a high school graduation party. It’s a film that reminds us of the fleeting nature of youth, the importance of seizing the moment, and the enduring power of connection. With its strong ensemble cast, sharp humor, and relatable themes, it remains a beloved entry in the genre that truly captures the bittersweet essence of saying goodbye to high school.
