Pretty Smart Movie 1987

Pretty Smart Movie 1987 – A Cult Comedy Worth Revisiting

Released in 1987, Pretty Smart quickly became a hidden gem among fans of late‑80s teen comedies. Though it never achieved blockbuster status, the film’s quirky premise, memorable characters, and off‑beat humor have earned it a devoted following. This article explores the movie’s plot, production background, critical reception, and why it remains relevant to modern audiences.

Plot Overview

The story follows teenage sisters Zig and Jennifer, whose wild antics have finally worn out their parents. In an effort to curb the chaos, the parents enroll the duo at the elite Academy Ogilvy, a private girls’ school located on a sun‑drenched Greek island. The school, however, is far from the tranquil learning environment the sisters expect.

Academy Ogilvy is populated by American expatriates and a faculty that hides a darker side. The headmaster, a charming yet lecherous figure, secretly runs a small drug empire that the sisters inadvertently stumble upon. Zig and Jennifer’s street‑wise instincts clash with the school’s polished façade, leading to a series of hilarious escapades as they try to expose the corruption while navigating teenage drama, romantic entanglements, and the occasional Swedish joke.

Main Characters

• Zig – The rebellious older sister with a quick wit and a talent for turning everyday situations into comedic gold.
• Jennifer – The more cautious sibling who often finds herself pulled into Zig’s schemes, providing a balance of innocence and bravery.
• Headmaster Vassilis – The seemingly respectable school leader who secretly controls a lucrative drug network, adding a noir edge to the comedy.
• Jem – A fellow student whose theme song, “Jem is My Name,” is echoed in the film’s soundtrack, giving the movie a distinctive musical motif.

Production and Behind‑the‑Scenes Details

Directed by a relatively unknown filmmaker who later worked on European comedies, Pretty Smart was shot on location in Greece, capturing the island’s bright architecture and turquoise waters. The production team faced several challenges, including limited lighting resources and a tight shooting schedule, which led to the use of a slightly noisy camera. The original footage was later recorded, cleaned and enhanced to improve visual clarity for theatrical release.