Quirky black comedy high school flick

This is an oddball teen movie that tries to be edgy and amusing with its black humor and overt cussing. Future movies were influenced by it, but it's unlikely a movie like this would be made in the present era of school mass shootings. The commentary on peer pressure, teen suicide and the maiming destructiveness of cliques is potent. Teens can be misled by the "popular" students, yes, but they can also be misled by the outcasts.

Slater stands out as a sorta dark Fonz of the late 80s, easily one of his best roles ever. Ryder is surprisingly good as the protagonist. I say "surprisingly" because I was never big on her (although I didn't dislike her either). The first act is quite good, but the story gets humdrum in the middle; thankfully, the last 20 minutes perk up. The late 80's ambiance is to die for.

The original ending was way more morbid (the school blowing up and the kids shown in Heaven getting along). They had an ironic alternative ending that they didn't go with either (the fat girl shooting an apologetic Veronica in the face). Apparently the studio pressured the writer & director to go with the theatrical ending, which I approve. It's a story of redemption: Being misled by corrupt people for a season doesn't define a person forever. And, remember, Veronica never actually committed murder (as far as the intent of the heart goes). She was duped.