Garry Marshall, who directed Pretty Woman, is the man behind the camera for this sweet comedy starring Matt Dillon. It’s the summer of 1963, and young Jeffrey (Dillon) is a poor Brooklyn boy who gets a job at the exclusive El Flamingo beach club. He’s soon rubbing shoulders with the rich members in his job as a cabana boy, most notably Phil Brody (Richard Crenna), a wealthy sports car salesman who befriends Jeffrey and fills his head with get-rich-quick ideals, much to the consternation of Jeffrey’s hardworking dad (Elizondo).
Yes, this movie has a big old moral staring at you throughout, and a few really obvious plot twists too. But Dillon is likeable, Crenna is always gruff good value, and the summer of ’63 looks warm and appealing. Movie fans should look out for Marisa Tomei and John Turturro in early roles.
Is The Flamingo Kid suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
None.
If you like this, why not try: Class, Footloose, Circle Of Friends, Grease, Ferris Bueller's Day Off,