Risky Business
dir. Paul Brickman · 1983
Feature
Coming of Age
Mood
Adventurous / Comedic
Look
polished 1980s suburban chic with vibrant colors and sleek car shots
Structure
linear progression with episodic misadventures
Plot
Meet Joel Goodson, an industrious, college-bound 17-year-old and a responsible, trustworthy son. However, when his parents go away and leave him home alone in the wealthy Chicago suburbs with the Porsche at his disposal he quickly decides he has been good for too long and it is time to enjoy himself. After an unfortunate incident with the Porsche Joel must raise some cash, in a risky way.
Why watch
Joel Goodson finds himself alone in his parents' lavish home, with a Porsche and a world of possibilities at his fingertips. As he navigates the thrilling yet treacherous waters of teenage rebellion, the film captures the intoxicating blend of adventure and moral ambiguity that defines youth.
Talking points
- the impact of wealth on morality
- the complexities of teenage identity
- the consequences of risk-taking
- the portrayal of suburban life in cinema
Cultural context
1980s consumerismsuburban youth culturethe rise of the teenage anti-heroshifting sexual mores