My Bodyguard (1980) Reviews

I saw this in a theater in 1980 and loved it. 28 years later (10/02/08) I watched it again and it still has the same upbeat impact. A colorful and clever nerds-versus-bullies story, it is just serious enough to provide a valuable lesson for kids, yet it also has some delightful characters like the eccentric grandma (legendary Ruth Gordon). Chris Makepeace had already proved his magnetic screen presence in the classic "Meatballs" just prior to this film. He carries this film beautifully. This was Matt Dillon's third film and at 16 he was already a huge heart throb. (You gotta see him way back then.) Joan Cusack is also glowing in her second film. Martin Mull (the dad) mugs with his own characteristic style. This is a film you don't forget because it is so well made. Artful, top-notch producton, settings, and music. Great family film if you can excuse a bit of language. Still one of my favorites of all time. "You broke my nose!"
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Although this movie is replete with choice words, it still is a great movie for boys to watch to learn about bullying. My 10 year old loved it! The fight scene is just enough for the boys to think its "cool" but not too rough. The nerds stand up to the tough guys and win showing that you have to stand up to a bully and not let them take advantage of you.
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My family loved this movie. I recommend this movie be shown in public school. Not only because of the bully aspect but also because of the Makepeace characters ability to be empathetic to another kid who is misunderstood. GREAT FILM!!!!!!!
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This movie made Matt Dillon's career, and got Adam Baldwin work for life. Too bad Chris Makepeace never did another good film. This movie will make anyone who ever felt pickd-on or beat-up in school feel good. It's like an after school special with a real world feel! I don't give 5 stars often guys...............
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