Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Fast Times at Ridgemont High, directed by Amy Heckerling, is simply a modern cult classic. First-time screenwriter Cameron Crowe (Jerry Maguire), went undercover as a high school student and came back with the straight dope on sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll, while capturing some of the most memorable screen characters ever. They’re all here, from Stacy (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and Linda’s (Phoebe Cates) sexual misadventures to go-getter Brad’s (Judge Reinhold) quick career in the world of fast food to the unforgettable Spicoli (Sean Penn) as the ultimate surfer dude. Add appearances by Nicolas Cage, Anthony Edwards, Forest Whitaker and Ray Walston and you have an unbeatable cast. With all this talent behind it, no wonder Fast Times at Ridgemont High is as honest, fresh and funny as it was a generation ago. (Universal Pictures UK)