On this day, February 8, 1985, the coming-of-age comedy-drama Heaven Help Us premiered in theaters. Directed by Michael Dinner, the film featured an impressive ensemble cast, including Andrew McCarthy, Mary Stuart Masterson, Kevin Dillon, Malcolm Danare, Patrick Dempsey, Stephen Geoffreys, John Heard, and Donald Sutherland.
Set in 1965 Brooklyn, the film follows a group of Catholic high school boys dealing with strict discipline, teenage rebellion, and first love while navigating the challenges of attending St. Basil’s, a boys’ school run by the Brothers of St. Basil. The mix of humor and heartfelt moments made Heaven Help Us a relatable and nostalgic film for many, with its themes of friendship, authority, and coming-of-age struggles.
While the movie wasn’t a major box office hit, earning $6 million, it has gained a cult following over the years, particularly among fans of 1980s teen films. The strong performances, especially by Andrew McCarthy and Kevin Dillon, and the film’s balance of comedy and drama have helped it stand the test of time.
Fun fact: Heaven Help Us marked one of the earliest film roles for Patrick Dempsey, who would later become famous for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy.
Trivia question: What is the name of the Catholic high school in Heaven Help Us where the main characters are students?
Set in 1965 Brooklyn, the film follows a group of Catholic high school boys dealing with strict discipline, teenage rebellion, and first love while navigating the challenges of attending St. Basil’s, a boys’ school run by the Brothers of St. Basil. The mix of humor and heartfelt moments made Heaven Help Us a relatable and nostalgic film for many, with its themes of friendship, authority, and coming-of-age struggles.
While the movie wasn’t a major box office hit, earning $6 million, it has gained a cult following over the years, particularly among fans of 1980s teen films. The strong performances, especially by Andrew McCarthy and Kevin Dillon, and the film’s balance of comedy and drama have helped it stand the test of time.
Fun fact: Heaven Help Us marked one of the earliest film roles for Patrick Dempsey, who would later become famous for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy.
Trivia question: What is the name of the Catholic high school in Heaven Help Us where the main characters are students?
