Based on the real-life adventures chronicled by Cameron Crowe, Fast Times follows a group of high school students growing up in Southern California. Stacy Hamilton and Mark Ratner are looking for a love interest, and are helped along by their older classmates, Linda Barrett and Mike Damone, respectively. At the center of the film is Jeff Spicoli, a perpetually stoned surfer who faces-off with the resolute Mr. Hand—a man convinced that everyone is on dope.
Seen this one a few times over the years and still as fun as ever with a wonderful ensemble cast, a few of which have had a sustained career (others, like Phoebe Cates, Robert Romanus and Brian Backer, not so much). Has a good amount of heart mixed in with the comedy. Not sure where I place this amongst other coming-of-age flicks like The Breakfast Club or Dazed and Confused) but still really well made. **4.0/5**