Back in the Day with John and Jay

Episode 136: The Boyfriend School (1990) // Classic 90's rom-com or Lifetime movie of the week?....

John and Jay Episode 136

You choose.

Gus (Steve Guttenberg), a nerdy cartoonist recovering from a serious illness, gets a little help from his romance-novelist sister Lizzie (Shelley Long) to reinvent himself into a hunky biker heartthrob to win the affection of journalist Emily (Jami Gertz). We’ll discuss the film’s hilarious makeover montages, romantic hijinks, and why this under-the-radar gem captured the lighthearted spirit of 90s rom-coms.

Expect plenty of laughs as we talk about Steve Guttenberg’s transformation from lovable geek to irresistible "Lobo Marunga" and the comedic dynamic between the cast. We’ll also delve into the movie’s unique take on romance and the classic "ugly duckling" trope, along with its signature 90s flair—from fashion to flirtation.

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'Beavis and Butt-head' Cover art created by Joe Crawford