Better Off Dead - Teens Are Absurd

Send us a Question!PATREON MOVIE DISCUSSION:This movie was selected by our Patreon Supporters over at the Cinematic Doctrine Patreon. Support as little as $3 a month and have your voice heard! Shirleon & Kathryn join Melvin to talk about a much-loved 80's cult-classic comedy; Better Off Dead! Are teen years really like that? Can we enjoy the comedic work of someone controversial? Did everything work? Tune in and find out!Topics:Editor's Note: No Patreon Exclusive discussion! But, I do intend to trim this episode down from its original 1:21:19 length, so if you want to hear the UNCUT version, tune in on Patreon here!Kathryn feels Better Off Dead is a movie that people will hate if they despise being uncomfortable.For Shirleon, the film was too "kitchen sink": fully of ideas but nothing to do with them.The comedy progressively becomes more absurd with each passing scene.If the comedy doesn't work for someone, there isn't much in terms of narrative to hold on to.Talking the Dan Schneider problem.Being a teenager is hard, even if teens are irresponsible.As always: the ending.Recommendations:A Sincere Warning About The Entity In Your Home by Jason Arnopp (2015) (Short Story)The Brainrot Apocalypse (a DIY survival guide) (2025) (YouTube)Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie (2025) (Movie) Support the showSupport on Patreon for Unique Perks! Early access to uncut episodes Vote on a movie/show we review One-time reward of two Cinematic Doctrine Stickers & PinsSocial Links: ThreadsWebsiteInstagramLetterboxdFacebook Group