Better Off Dead... A Deep Dive (Into Absurdity!)

Okay, international film fam, Priya here! Last night, I revisited "Better Off Dead..." (1985). I know, I know, it's pure 80s cheese, but sometimes you just need a dose of dark teen comedy, right? Lane Meyer, played brilliantly by John Cusack, is just ridiculously depressing after his girlfriend dumps him. The whole 'suicidal thoughts turned into cartoonish scenarios' thing is definitely not for everyone, and I can see why some people find it...problematic, lets say. But I find it hilarious because it's so over the top! I mean, come on, a hamburger that sings Van Halen? The whole paperboy relentlessly chasing him for two dollars? Plus, I love that French exchange student, Monique. She's so much cooler and smarter than anyone else in Lane's life. Her fixing his Camaro while speaking fluent French is legendary! Lane's family is also completely nuts, which is what makes the movie so great. I think my favorite scene is when Lane's mom "cooks" dinner. You can tell she is a terrible cook. It's definitely not high art, but it's a nostalgic trip back to a time when comedies could be just plain weird. What did you guys think of it? Did the skiing scenes make you cringe as much as they made me? Also, is it just me, or does Roy Stalin look like every 80s movie villain combined?? One minor gripe: I wish the director was more well known. I always feel like these weird movies are made by some mad genius. Anyway, tell me your thoughts! Am I alone on this one?