Welcome to The Video Store Podcast. Each week, I recommend four films you might want to check out, whether you're looking for something to rent or just want to expand your movie knowledge. This week, I’m diving into a themes that are timeless and relatable: rebellion, youth, and the struggles of growing up. The four films I’m highlighting are Over the Edge (1979), Times Square (1980), River’s Edge (1986), and Pump Up the Volume (1990).

Over the Edge (1979)

This cult classic explores suburban boredom and teenage rebellion. It was loosely inspired by a real-life incident in California during the 1970s, where teens rioted in response to restrictions imposed by their parents and local authorities. It’s notable for being Matt Dillon’s film debut. He plays Richie, one of the kids at the center of the chaos. Directed by Jonathan Kaplan, the film’s gritty realism was a little too much for studios at the time, it barely saw a release but later gained a loyal following through home video. The soundtrack, packed with Cheap Trick and The Cars, perfectly captures the direction of rock music of the late ’70s.

Times Square (1980)

This film might not be as polished, but it’s bursting with energy and heart. Directed by Allan Moyle, who later did Pump Up the Volume, it tells the story of two misfit girls who form a punk band and try to take over New York City. The movie feels raw, both in tone and execution, and the soundtrack is amazing, featuring artists like The Ramones, Talking Heads, and Patti Smith.

Tim Curry has a supporting role as a late-night DJ, and his performance ties the whole rebellious tone together. The production was troubled, with studio interference cutting down the original vision, but what remains is still unforgettable. I love the way it capture the city itself as a character.

River’s Edge (1986)

This is a darker take on teenage life, based on a true crime story where a group of teens reacted disturbingly casually to a murder in their group. It’s an unsettling and atmospheric film, directed by Tim Hunter, who went on to direct episodes of Twin Peaks. Keanu Reeves gives one of his early standout performances, alongside Crispin Glover, who turns in an incredibly strange and intense portrayal as Layne, the self-proclaimed leader of the group. Dennis Hopper is also in this, playing Feck, a creepy recluse with a dark past. The film captures the nihilism of the mid-’80s, reflecting on the emptiness some teens felt during that time. This didn’t appeal to me at the time because I didn’t feel that same nihilism, but the older I have gotten, the more I can appreciate it.

Pump Up the Volume (1990)

This film is a little more hopeful, but it’s still about rebellion. Christian Slater stars as Mark, a shy high schooler who runs a pirate radio station at night, encouraging his fellow students to fight back against corruption and conformity. It’s another film by Allan Moyle, and you can feel his knack for capturing the spirit of young outsiders. The film touches on some surprisingly heavy issues, but it balances that with humor and energy. I think every kid who saw this thought about what their own pirate radio station would sound like.

If you’re looking for something to watch this week, all four of these films tap into the raw emotions of youth, with characters who are struggling to be heard in a world that doesn’t always want to listen. Check them out, and let me know what you think.

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