Susi Gibson

Written by Susi Gibson

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

35-facts-about-the-movie-three-oclock-high
Source: Cinema-crazed.com

If you’re a fan of 80s teen movies, then you’ve probably come across the cult classic “Three O’Clock High.” Released in 1987, this film has gained a dedicated following over the years thanks to its unique storyline and memorable characters. Directed by Phil Joanou and written by Richard Christian Matheson and Thomas E. Szollosi, “Three O’Clock High” is a hilarious and thrilling rollercoaster ride that takes place over the course of a single school day. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, this movie has captivated audiences with its engaging plot and energetic performances. In this article, we’ll delve into 35 fascinating facts about “Three O’Clock High” that will give you a deeper appreciation for this gem of 80s cinema.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Three O’Clock High” is a cult classic ’80s movie about a high school student facing off against a bully. It’s filled with suspense, humor, and relatable themes, making it a must-watch for fans of teen comedies.
  • The film’s unique premise, memorable characters, and unexpected twist at the climax make “Three O’Clock High” a hidden gem of ’80s cinema that leaves a lasting impression on its audience.
Table of Contents

The movie Three O’Clock High was released in 1987.

Three O’Clock High is a cult classic high school comedy film that was released in 1987.

The movie was directed by Phil Joanou.

Phil Joanou, an acclaimed director, was chosen to helm the project.

The story takes place over the course of a single day.

Three O’Clock High unfolds in real-time, capturing the events that occur on a high school campus throughout one eventful day.

The main character is Jerry Mitchell, a high school student.

Jerry Mitchell is an average teenager who finds himself in a series of unfortunate events when he unintentionally angers a bully named Buddy Revell.

Casey Siemaszko portrays Jerry Mitchell.

Casey Siemaszko delivers a remarkable performance as the lovable underdog, Jerry Mitchell.

Richard Tyson plays the intimidating character of Buddy Revell.

Richard Tyson brings the perfect combination of menace and charisma to the role of Buddy Revell, the notorious high school bully.

The film’s tagline is “Jerry Mitchell just bumped into Buddy Revell. Now Jerry isn’t thinking about math or english. Because at three o’clock, he’s history.”

This tagline effectively captures the suspense and impending danger that Jerry Mitchell faces throughout the movie.

The movie was inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s film ‘Dial M for Murder’.

The concept of a protagonist being trapped in a high-stakes situation was inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, ‘Dial M for Murder’.

The film showcases the struggles of high school life.

Three O’Clock High explores universal themes of bullying, peer pressure, and the desire to fit in during the tumultuous teenage years.

The movie has a running time of 97 minutes.

The film’s efficient runtime allows for a tightly-paced narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

The iconic climax of the film takes place in the school parking lot.

The tense showdown between Jerry Mitchell and Buddy Revell is set against the backdrop of the school parking lot, creating a visually striking and memorable scene.

The movie received positive reviews from critics upon its release.

Three O’Clock High was praised for its unique premise, strong performances, and well-executed suspense.

The film has gained a cult following over the years.

Despite not achieving significant commercial success initially, Three O’Clock High has become a beloved film among fans of ’80s cinema.

Three O’Clock High was not a box office success.

Despite positive reviews, the film did not perform well at the box office, but it gained popularity through subsequent home video releases and word-of-mouth recommendations.

The soundtrack features a mix of ’80s rock and pop music.

The film’s soundtrack includes popular songs from the era, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.

Three O’Clock High was filmed in Utah.

The movie was shot in Ogden, Utah, which provided an authentic small-town setting for the story.

The screenplay was written by Richard Christian Matheson and Thomas Szollosi.

Matheson and Szollosi penned a script that masterfully balances comedy and tension, creating a truly unique viewing experience.

The film’s budget was $5 million.

Despite its modest budget, Three O’Clock High showcases impressive production values and attention to detail.

Jerry’s younger sister, Brei, is played by Anne Ryan.

Anne Ryan brings charm and innocence to the role of Jerry’s younger sister.

The film’s original title was “A Boy’s Life.”

Prior to its release, the movie was titled “A Boy’s Life” but was later changed to Three O’Clock High.

The movie explores the theme of redemption.

Through Jerry Mitchell’s journey, Three O’Clock High examines the transformative power of overcoming fears and standing up for oneself.

The film utilizes creative camera angles to emphasize tension.

Director Phil Joanou employed innovative camera techniques to heighten the film’s suspense and capture the intensity of the characters’ emotions.

Three O’Clock High is often praised for its witty and intelligent dialogue.

The film’s screenplay showcases clever and memorable lines, adding depth to the characters.

The movie was influenced by film noir.

Three O’Clock High incorporates elements of film noir, particularly in its lighting and visual style, adding a layer of sophistication to the story.

The film’s title refers to the time of an impending fight.

At three o’clock, Jerry Mitchell is scheduled to face off against Buddy Revell in a fight that will determine his fate.

Three O’Clock High is considered a hidden gem of ’80s cinema.

The film’s unique premise, memorable characters, and expertly crafted tension have garnered it a reputation as one of the standout films of the era.

The movie captures the essence of high school life in the ’80s.

Three O’Clock High authentically portrays the fashion, social dynamics, and teenage angst of the 1980s, making it a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many viewers.

The film’s humor strikes a balance between slapstick and wit.

Three O’Clock High knows how to deliver both physical comedy and clever one-liners, making it enjoyable for a wide range of audiences.

The movie’s pacing keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Three O’Clock High maintains a constant sense of urgency and tension, making it a thrilling and gripping viewing experience.

Three O’Clock High is often compared to other teen comedies of the ’80s.

The movie stands out due to its unique blend of comedy, suspense, and relatable themes, setting it apart from other films of its kind.

The film’s subtle social commentary resonates with audiences.

Three O’Clock High subtly tackles issues such as power dynamics, conformity, and the consequences of our actions, prompting viewers to reflect on their own experiences.

The movie explores the power of friendship.

Throughout Jerry Mitchell’s journey, Three O’Clock High highlights the importance of loyalty and the bonds that can form between unlikely friends.

Three O’Clock High features memorable supporting characters.

The film boasts a colorful ensemble cast, including memorable characters such as Principal Devis, played by Jeffrey Tambor, who adds comedic moments to the story.

The movie’s climax builds up to an unexpected twist.

Just when viewers think they have the fight at three o’clock figured out, Three O’Clock High delivers a surprising twist that keeps them engaged until the very end.

Three O’Clock High leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

With its unique premise, memorable characters, and intense climax, Three O’Clock High is a film that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Three O’Clock High is a cult classic film that has captivated audiences since its release in 1987. With its unique storyline, memorable characters, and high-stakes plot, it continues to be a favorite among movie enthusiasts. From the intense showdown between Jerry Mitchell and Buddy Revell to the iconic soundtrack, this film has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the movie, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of Three O’Clock High. Its themes of facing fears, standing up for oneself, and the unpredictability of high school make it a relatable and timeless masterpiece.

If you haven’t watched Three O’Clock High yet, I highly recommend giving it a chance. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as you follow Jerry’s journey through what could be the most pivotal afternoon of his life.

FAQs

Q: Is Three O’Clock High based on a true story?

A: No, Three O’Clock High is not based on a true story. It is a fictional film inspired by the high school experience, bullying, and the adrenaline of a tense confrontation.

Q: Who directed Three O’Clock High?

A: Three O’Clock High was directed by Phil Joanou.

Q: Can you tell me more about the actors in the film?

A: The film stars Casey Siemaszko as Jerry Mitchell, Richard Tyson as Buddy Revell, Annie Ryan as Franny Perrins, and Stacey Glick as Brei Mitchell. They all deliver stellar performances in bringing the characters to life.

Q: What genre does Three O’Clock High fall under?

A: Three O’Clock High is a comedy-drama film with elements of thriller and coming-of-age genres.

Q: Is Three O’Clock High suitable for all audiences?

A: Three O’Clock High is rated PG-13 for violence, language, and brief sexual content. It may not be suitable for young children.

Q: What is the significance of the film’s title?

A: The title refers to the ultimate confrontation between Jerry Mitchell and Buddy Revell, which is set to take place at three o’clock in the afternoon.

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