Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) Watch Online Free

A young tomboy, Watts, finds her feelings for her best friend, Keith, run deeper than just friendship when he gets a date with the most popular girl in school.

Some Kind of Wonderful (1987), directed by Howard Deutch and written by John Hughes, is a quintessential teen romantic drama that explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. The film follows Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz), a high school student from a working-class background, who is infatuated with Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson), a popular girl from a wealthier social circle. Keith’s best friend, Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson), a tomboyish drummer, harbors unspoken feelings for him. The narrative delves into the complexities of teenage relationships, societal expectations, and personal growth.

Plot Summary

Keith Nelson, an aspiring artist, is best friends with Watts, a talented drummer. Despite their close bond, Keith is enamored with Amanda Jones, a popular girl at school who is dating the wealthy and arrogant Hardy Jenns. Amanda, however, is not as affluent as she appears and is dissatisfied with her relationship with Hardy. When Amanda breaks up with Hardy, Keith seizes the opportunity to ask her out, primarily to spite Hardy. Watts, who secretly has feelings for Keith, is supportive but also struggles with her own emotions. As Keith and Amanda’s relationship develops, Watts grapples with her feelings of jealousy and unrequited love. The film culminates in a series of events that lead Keith to realize that his true feelings are for Watts, not Amanda. In a heartfelt conclusion, Keith and Watts acknowledge their love for each other, highlighting the film’s central themes of self-discovery and the importance of genuine connections.

Analysis and Themes

Love and Self-Discovery

At its core, Some Kind of Wonderful is a journey of self-discovery through love. Keith’s initial infatuation with Amanda represents a superficial attraction, influenced by societal standards of beauty and popularity. However, as the narrative unfolds, Keith realizes that his true feelings are for Watts, who has been by his side all along. This realization underscores the theme that genuine love is rooted in understanding and shared experiences, rather than external appearances.

Friendship and Loyalty

The film emphasizes the importance of friendship and loyalty, particularly through the relationship between Keith and Watts. Despite Watts’ unspoken love for Keith, she remains a steadfast friend, supporting him in his pursuit of Amanda. Her loyalty and selflessness highlight the depth of their bond and the complexities of platonic relationships.

Social Class and Identity

Some Kind of Wonderful explores the impact of social class on identity and relationships. Keith’s working-class background and Amanda’s association with wealth create a dynamic where appearances and societal expectations influence their interactions. The film critiques these social constructs, suggesting that true connection transcends economic status.

Personal Growth and Empowerment

The characters undergo significant personal growth, learning to assert their desires and challenge societal norms. Keith’s decision to pursue his artistic passions, despite his father’s expectations, and Watts’ journey towards self-acceptance and expressing her feelings, exemplify themes of empowerment and individuality.

Impact of the Movie

Upon its release, Some Kind of Wonderful received positive reviews for its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances. Critics praised the film for its authentic portrayal of teenage emotions and its departure from typical teen movie clichés. Roger Ebert noted that the film is hardly ever about adults who are attempting to know themselves better, live better lives, get along more happily with the people around them.

Over the years, it has gained a cult following, appreciated for its nuanced characters and exploration of universal themes.

7 Reasons to Watch Some Kind of Wonderful

• Authentic Portrayal of Teenage Emotions: The film captures the complexities of teenage relationships with sincerity, offering a realistic depiction of young love and friendship. Its honest approach resonates with audiences, making it a timeless piece in the teen drama genre.
• Strong Performances by the Cast: Eric Stoltz, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Lea Thompson deliver compelling performances that bring depth to their characters. Their chemistry enhances the film’s emotional impact, making the characters’ journeys both relatable and engaging.
• Direction by Howard Deutch: Under Deutch’s direction, the film balances humor and drama effectively, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. His ability to draw nuanced performances from the cast contributes to the film’s enduring appeal.
• Screenplay by John Hughes: Hughes’ writing brings authenticity to the dialogue and character development, showcasing his talent for capturing the essence of teenage experiences. His script provides a fresh perspective on the teen romance genre, setting it apart from other films of the era.
• Exploration of Social Themes: The film delves into issues of social class, identity, and personal growth, offering a critique of societal norms and expectations. Its exploration of these themes encourages viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and relationships.
• Memorable Soundtrack: The film features a soundtrack that complements its themes and enhances the viewing experience. The music selection adds to the film’s nostalgic charm and emotional resonance.
• Timeless Appeal: Despite being released in 1987, the film’s themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery remain relevant, making it a classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal messages and relatable characters.

How Will You Feel After Watching Some Kind of Wonderful?

After watching Some Kind of Wonderful, viewers are likely to experience a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The film’s heartfelt exploration of love and friendship leaves a lasting impression, evoking emotions of empathy and understanding. The resolution of the characters’ journeys provides a satisfying conclusion, reinforcing the film’s themes of personal growth and the importance of genuine connections. Overall, the film offers a poignant and uplifting experience that resonates long after the credits roll.