Heaven Help Us (1985)

About Heaven Help Us

"Heaven Help Us" is a 1985 American comedy-drama film. The Catholic high school coming-of-age comedy is about a group of teenagers who attend the fictitious St. Basil's Boys' Prep School in Brooklyn. Taking place in 1965, the film follows a group of high school friends navigating their way through strict teachers, religion, love, and surprising revelations.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Michael Dinner, produced by Mark Carliner and written by Charles Purpura. Distributed by TriStar Pictures, it was originally released on February 8, 1985.

Actors

• Andrew McCarthy plays Michael Dunn, a student who is new to St. Basil's. McCarthy played the role with an empathetic approach which resonates with the viewers.
• Mary Stuart Masterson stars as Danni, the waitress at the local soda shop. Masterson played the role cheerfully, bringing lighthearted moments to the film.
• Kevin Dillon is cast as Rudy, the rebel of the group. Dillon's rebellious yet witty character portrayal adds to the comedic relief.
• Patrick Dempsey plays Corbet, the brains of the group. Dempsey's charismatic performance adds to the charm of the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The high school used as the fictitious St. Basil's Boys' Prep School is actually located in New Jersey and not in Brooklyn.
• The producers had originally intended to title the film "Catholic Boys," which is the title under which the film is known in certain countries outside North America.

Awards

The film did not receive any major award nominations or wins, but has since gained a cult following for its coming-of-age narrative and portrayal of Catholic school life in the 1960s.

Quotes

• "Maybe you're not supposed to like it. It's a sacrifice."
• "Love isn't something you think about, it's a state in which you dwell."
• "Life is full of disappointments."

Music and Soundtrack

• The music score was provided by James Horner.
• Songs used in the film include "Do You Love Me" by The Contours, "My Girl" by The Temptations and "Just One Look" by The Hollies.