Stay Cool (2009)

Henry (Mark Polish, who also wrote this movie) was a shy geek in high school. Now, many years after he left his small city, he's a mildly famous author. His most recent novel chronicled his own teen years, thinly disguised, especially his love for a fellow student, Scarlet (Winona Ryder). Quite unexpectedly, Henry finds himself traveling back to his roots when the current high principal (Chevy Chase) asks him to speak at the latest class graduation. No matter that HE doesn't even remember Hank, head educator wants FAMOUS. Reluctantly, Henry agrees to do it. But, all his old horrors come rushing back. First, his parents treat him like he's still a kid, needing to know where he's going and what time the car will be returned. Then, his old, grouchy English teacher (Frances Bay) insists on seeing Henry's speech beforehand, so she can evaluate it. Next, one of his oldest pals (Sean Astin) has come out of the closet and runs the local hair salon. Finally, Scarlet is now a pharmacist, beautiful still, but going through a messy divorce from the bully who used to make Hank's life miserable. Yet, will anything truly stop Henry from trying, once and for all, to get close to Scarlet? Even as a darling senior (Hillary Duff) makes a play for Henry, too? This pleasant film will please romcom fans; its totally cool for this crowd. But, it apes other films such as Romy and Michelle or any comedy about class reunions. From what I understand, the Polish brothers, one writes, one directs, have made some unique movies, beginning with Twin Falls Idaho and going on to The Astronaut Farmer. However, this one, despite its small charms, great cast, nice scenery, lovely costumes, polished script, and worthy direction is nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps the Polishes wanted to do something more "normal" this time around. And, they should be commended for joining forces to write, direct, and act in their own films. Yet, unless you truly like romantic comedies, this movie is probably not their definitive collaboration.