The Chocolate War (1988)

[Cassette Carl]

Title: The Chocolate War

Tagline: Sometimes revenge is bitter, not sweet.

Genre: Drama

Director: Keith Gordon

Cast: John Glover, Ilan Mitchell-Smith, Wallace Langham, Doug Hutchison, Corey Gunnestad, Brent David Fraser, Robert Davenport, Jenny Wright, Bud Cort, Adam Baldwin, Ethan Sandler, Wayne Young, Kurt Bloom, Wyeth Orestes Johnston, Landon Wine, Matthew Burke, Douglas A. Forsyth, Peter Boyack, Sean Hagerty, Colin Mitchell, Max Dixon, Rick May, John Sudol, Roger Tompkins, Elizabeth Yoffe, Robert Munns, Jason Hrdlicka

Status: Released

Release: Nov 17, 1988

Runtime: 100

Plot: Jerry, a new student at an elite Catholic prep school, must face the hazing practices handed down by the Vigils, a group of powerful students. When teacher Brother Leon pushes the students to sell chocolates for a fundraiser, the head of the Vigils, Archie, gets Jerry to reject selling for 10 days. However, Jerry decides to keep up the refusal past the original time frame, which pits him against the Vigils and the school staff.

"The Chocolate War" is an intriguing film adaptation of Robert Cormier's novel, directed by Keith Gordon. Released on November 17, 1988, this drama explores themes of power, conformity, and rebellion within the confines of a Catholic prep school. The movie's plot centers on Jerry Renault, portrayed by Ilan Mitchell-Smith, who challenges the status quo by refusing to participate in a school chocolate sale, defying both the school's administration and a secret student society known as the Vigils.

Keith Gordon, who transitioned from acting to directing, brings a unique perspective to the film, capturing the tension and psychological complexity of the story. The film's tagline, "Sometimes revenge is bitter, not sweet," aptly reflects its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and institutional control.

The cast includes notable performances by John Glover as Brother Leon and Wallace Langham as Archie, the manipulative leader of the Vigils. The film's atmosphere is further enhanced by its moody cinematography and a soundtrack that complements the intense narrative.

While "The Chocolate War" may not have achieved blockbuster status, it has garnered a cult following for its thought-provoking content and faithful adaptation of Cormier's challenging novel. It's a compelling watch for those interested in 1980s cinema that delves into the complexities of adolescence and authority.