Rock ‘n’ Roll High School (1979)

Underneath its chipper, anything-for-laugh grin, Rock ‘N’ Roll is as subversive as teen movies get, with an ending that, for all its absurdity, is still surprisingly shocking.

Written by Joe Dante and directed by Allan Arkush, this refreshingly wacky teenage film is filled with warped humor (including mice exploding to Ramones music), and makes wonderful use of the "so dumb they're smart" Ramones, who stepped to the fore when Cheap Trick backed out of the project. Nothing is taken seriously and nothing should be--it's only rock 'n' roll.

Rock 'n' Roll High School is like a ride on a music rollercoaster. For some, the ride will be a dizzying one they'll never want to endure again. But for others – mostly cult/punk enthusiasts – this is going to be one ride worth experiencing over and over again.

A freewheeling, up-with-kids-down-with-high-school picture featuring punk rock stars, The Ramones.

It's basically kleenteen fun. If you're worried about the Ramones, rest assured; they make a very adequate chunka chunka chunka sound.