The Last American Virgin, released in theaters on July 30, 1982, stands out from its 80s contemporaries by offering a surprisingly honest and melancholic look at first love and teenage disappointment. It follows the familiar antics of three high school friends but grounds its story in an emotional realism that gives it a lasting impact.
SPOILER ALERT
The story revolves around a group of high school friends on a relentless quest to lose their virginity. The central figure is Gary (Lawrence Monoson), a sweet and earnest teenager who harbors a deep, unrequited love for Karen (Diane Franklin), a beautiful new girl in school. Gary’s friends are the smooth-talking, popular Rick (Steve Antin) and the goofy David (Joe Rubbo).
While Gary tries to connect with Karen on an emotional level, Rick, with his effortless charm and confidence, swoops in and begins dating her.
Gary’s heartache becomes the film’s emotional core, as he witnesses his friends’ carefree pursuits while he struggles with the genuine, painful reality of his feelings for Karen. He remains a supportive friend to Karen, often being there for her when Rick fails, but he never manages to escape the “friend zone.”
The film’s narrative builds towards a moment of truth, but it’s not the happy ending typically expected from a teen comedy.
The film was directed by Boaz Davidson, and is a remake of his 1978 Israeli film Lemon Popsicle.
Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus produced both films, with The Last American Virgin being made under their The Cannon Group label.
The Last American Virgin was released two weeks prior to the huge hit Fast Times at Ridgemont High, which it is often compared to due to similar subjects.
Steve Antin and Diane Franklin in The Last American Virgin (Photo/The Cannon Group)
Reception for The Last American Virgin
The Last American Virgin grossed $5.8 million in its theatrical run.
Lasting Legacy
The Last American Virgin‘s legacy is defined by two key elements: its soundtrack and its ending.
The film features an incredible soundtrack that serves as a time capsule of early 80s new wave and rock, with tracks from iconic acts like The Police, U2, Journey, Blondie, Quincy Jones, The Commodores, REO Speedwagon, Devo, Oingo Boingo, Tommy Tutone, The Human League and The Cars. This music not only elevated the film’s mood but also cemented its place in pop culture.
SPOILER ALERT ~ More importantly, the film’s ending is famously bittersweet and tragic. Instead of the protagonist getting the girl, Gary is left heartbroken and alone. This subversion of the typical romantic comedy trope gave the film a profound sense of realism and emotional weight, making it a memorable and more authentic portrait of teenage angst than many of its contemporaries.
It is this refusal to provide a conventional happy resolution that earned the film a dedicated cult following over the decades.
The Last American Virgin original one sheet (Photo/Cannon Films)
