Some Kind of Wonderful(1987)
Submitted by JustJen
In a high school nestled in the San Fernando Valley, Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz), a young mechanic with artistic ambitions, finds himself at odds with his father’s expectations of attending college for business. Keith’s closest companion is Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson), a spirited drummer, who shares his world in the working-class community.
Keith’s heart is set on Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson), a popular girl known for her association with the school’s elite. Amanda, however, comes from humble beginnings, borrowing her status through borrowed designer clothes and her relationship with the snobbish Hardy Jenns (Craig Sheffer). When their relationship ends, Keith sees an opportunity to win her over, although his intentions are partly fueled by rivalry with Hardy.
Watts, initially skeptical of Keith’s pursuit of Amanda, begins to understand her own deeper feelings for him as his plan unfolds. Meanwhile, Hardy, stung by the breakup, devises a plan to embarrass Keith at a party. To prepare for his date with Amanda, Keith splurges his college savings on a lavish evening, including an elegant meal and a visit to an art museum where he reveals a portrait he’s painted of her. Despite Watts’ help in orchestrating the date, including a lesson in kissing, Keith remains unaware of her affection.
At the party, Hardy’s scheme unfolds, but Keith is rescued by an unexpected group of friends, including Duncan (E.G. Daily), a punk rock student. The confrontation exposes Hardy’s true colors, leading to Amanda publicly rejecting him. Later, understanding the dynamics at play, Amanda encourages Keith to pursue Watts, recognizing the bond they share.
Keith chases after Watts, who has left the party in distress. He confesses his love, and they share a heartfelt kiss. In a symbol of their future together, Keith gives Watts the diamond earrings he’d bought for Amanda, who accepts them, affirming their newfound relationship with a hopeful comment from Keith, “You look good wearing my future.”