By Suzanna Leung “Heathers,” a satirical cult film from 1988, is a must watch if you are interested in seeing a film playing on the common tropes of high school romantic comedies with a dark-humored spin. Directed by Michael Lehmann and starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, “Heathers” introduces the audience to your usual group of ‘mean girls.’ The film begins by introducing Heather Chandler, Heather Duke, Heather McNamara and the movie’s lead, Veronica Sawyer played by Winona Ryder. The group, subsequently called the ‘Heathers’ by their fellow classmates, wanders the lunch room every day bullying students who are deemed outcasts. Although Ryder’s character initially made her way into the group seeking popularity, she realizes the grass isn't greener on the other side. Soon, she finds herself attracted to new student and social outcast, Jason Dean, played by Christian Slater. The two of them begin plotting to destroy the popular kids at their school, but as time goes on, Veronica finds herself becoming increasingly worried about Dean’s intentions. This film deconstructs the romantic comedy genre and melds it with a more realistic and at times, hyper-realistic setting. It also uses dark humor to comment on teen suicide, homophobia and our culture that enables violence and only feels remorse when things have already gone ‘too far.’ “Heathers” is entertaining with endearing qualities as well as a social commentary that will shock you and make you rethink a few things in your life. It is also the perfect movie to reflect back on the embarrassing and irrational decisions made in high school.
Snack to pair with this film:
A great snack to pair this movie with are mini banana pancakes. They are shockingly easy to make and taste exactly like regular banana pancakes without all of the added flour. Three-Ingredient Banana Pancake Recipe
- 1 large banana
- 2 eggs
- Cinnamon
