Adolescent fascination with older siblings’ friends is praised as recognizable, with a cologne anecdote illustrating it. — Bill Simmons
Outdoor lockers and a beach prom are envied, although a real beach prom and the absence of supervising adults are questioned. — Kyle Brandt
The sex comedy is considered more soulful and less uncomfortable than several male-directed contemporaries; female direction is offered as a reason.
Parents absent for the whole movie are praised as a familiar 1980s plot device. — Joanna Robinson
Modern cameras and constant contact would undermine the absent-parent premise; the lack of a huge house party is also surprising.
The rich heroine’s clothing purchase and move between schools support a reading of the story as personal growth beyond a privileged life and poor boyfriend.
The obnoxious older college boyfriend with a convertible is enjoyed as a recurring period archetype. — Joanna Robinson
Sexual nicknames, the virginity line and eccentric insults are praised, particularly the avoidance of a common homophobic slur. — Joanna Robinson
The bluntly tailored title songs are enjoyed as an era-specific soundtrack device.
Hyser reportedly had a no-nudity contract and was persuaded by the director to reconsider.
Rosanna Arquette reportedly advised that the scene would permanently draw attention to her breasts, including in old age. — Bill Simmons
Interview recollections describe surprise at freeze-frame notoriety and later regret about avoiding other nude scenes.
