The recent Warner Archive Blu-ray release of the 1981 murder mystery "Night School" prompts mourning for the passing of the sub-genre of gritty urban-based thrillers (and moderate-budget slasher flicks) of the '70s and '80s to which this cult classic belongs.
An early scene in which Harvard-educated police detective Lt. Judd Austin parks his BMW in the middle of a historic street in Boston is an early indication that the authenticity of this film extends beyond it being shot on location. More importantly, we are spared the equally inconsistent and exaggerated Wahlbergesque accent that characterize most modern films set in the Athens of America.
The multiple apt quick cuts in the following YouTube clip of the theatrical trailer for "School" perfectly conveys the tone of this '80s noir movie.
The opening scenes are part of what earns "School" cult status; a pretty young teacher's aide is enjoying a short break on a merry-go-round when an ominous helmeted figure in black dismounts a motorcycle and soon turns the playground equipment into a carousel of terror.
This crime having common elements with an earlier offense prompts calling Austin in on his day off, apparently because a Harvard degree makes him the only BPD detective capable of stopping the killer before (presumably) he strikes again.
Learning that the late head of the class is a night student at the women-only Wendell College (most likely, fictional version of Wheelock College) prompts Austin to visit that institution of higher education; the dean (who looks flushed) soon directs Austin to arrogant (Harvard-educated ?) anthropology professor Vincent Millett. Millett denying any personal relationship with Victim #2 and his prediction that Austin will not catch the killer earns this educator a place on the list of usual subjects.
Austin also meets student/research assistant Eleanor (Rachel Ward of "The Thorn Birds" in her film debut), who is the T and A of Millet. Eleanor soon features prominently in a suspenseful shower scene that is a slasher flick staple since "Psycho." We even get the payoff in the form of a circling the drain scene that is a clear Hitchcock homage.
The body count continues rising as Austin increasingly becomes obsessed with proving the guilt of Millett. This mania leads to a wonderfully steamy confrontation with Eleanor.
Another highlight involves light suspense regarding the whereabouts of a victim; the filmmakers have great fun setting up the audience multiple times before providing the anticipated payoff.
The beginning of the end starts with a hot pursuit that ultimately leads to another chase in which Austin is sure that he has his man only to discover a final surprise.
This good blending of multiple elements succeeds because they recognize that we have seen something similar while providing enough fresh elements to reward our knowledge of the genre and to keep things interesting.
Anyone with questions or comments regarding "School" is encouraged either to email me or to connect on Twitter via @tvdvdguy.
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