Many people these days are finding new places to express their thoughts. Whether it’s on Twitter, Tumblr, a blog, or Youtube, there’s a place to do it. Younger crowds in particular thrive off the interaction that the internet gives them. Everybody has something to say, and no matter what their reason for saying it is, there’s always that desire to make your voice heard.
This is the main idea behind the early 90’s film “Pump Up The Volume,” a fun movie about a shy high school kid named Mark Hunter (played by Christian Slater) who’s a seemingly ordinary student by day, but takes on the role of a pirate radio show host named Hard Harry at night. The other students don’t know Harry’s true identity, but they tune into his program to hear him play music and give his thoughts about school life and the society.
Through live calls with his listeners and live readings of fan-mail, he learns more about his fans/classmates and they have a rocking good time as he gives his commentary and makes the occasional joke. They don’t shy away from going into personal problems, however. There are very well-done moments that tackle things like “coming out,” bullying, and suicide. Things start to unfold as some of the students unexpectedly dropout or are asked to leave, causing the others to speculate about what’s happening within their school.
These events, combined with exposure brought to the Hard Harry program, lead to Mark’s struggles at keeping himself grounded throughout the ensuing action. Things really kick in when he encourages his listeners to release their problems instead of contain them. This causes the already-shifty management of their school to escalate, and this, in turn, causes more of the students to vent their feelings as they continue to seek out guidance from Harry.
Christian Slater does a great job at portraying the angsty qualities of a teenager and the exuberance of a radio host. Mark is an everyman, a kid who doesn’t quite know how to fit in, and yet has confidence that comes out when he needs it. He’s like Peter Parker in that sense, only without the whole run-in with that spider.
It isn’t a perfect movie by any means. There are some ideas that could’ve used a bit more development, and some of the adult characters do come off as a little flat. But with a concept this fun, I personally don’t find the problems getting in the way.
In short, this is a great movie for anyone wanting to express theirself in any medium. Podcasters and livestreamers will especially get a kick out of it. Check out this movie and enjoy the ride.
So until next time, always remember that forgiveness is divine, but never pay full-price for late pizza. Good night everybody o/
Kasey Lewis - Actor, Writer, Creator 