A Scrambled School: The Best Worst Movie of Afternoon Matinees

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In the late ’80s and ’90s, youth films set in schools, colleges, or summer programs were a familiar sight. While many of these films, like “Chainsaw” featuring Mr. Shoop, remain classics, their portrayals of American high schools were often far removed from the realities of Brazilian schools, where overcrowding was common and amenities like individual lockers or advanced science labs were rare. Then came a Brazilian high school movie made by Brazilians, for Brazilians. Despite this promising premise, the film’s depiction of a chaotic school, populated by crude playboys and staff with questionable reputations, felt disconnected from reality. Although filmed in a different language, this Brazilian high school movie mirrored American tropes, failing to reflect the authentic experiences of students in Brazil. The film’s script follows familiar teen drama tropes like intense romance, unrequited love, unexpected pregnancies, unsettling janitor scenarios, and the school’s financial woes. A real estate scheme, concocted by a clueless villain, adds to the turmoil, while Didi’s romantic subplot remains uninspired.

The opening theme, a cheesy pop song with synthesizers and nonsensical lyrics like “What a Risky Adventure was to Give Ball to You in this Disruptive School we have much to learn,” sets the tone. The film also incorporates elements common in national productions, particularly those of the “Trapalhões”: nonsensical music video clips and poorly concealed product placement, alongside numerous appearances by famous TV personalities. While these aspects invite mockery, the cast, in particular, elevates the film.

Besides the “Trapalhões” (with Didi stealing scenes, Mussum’s spot-on laughs, and Zacarias’ final film appearance just a month after the film’s release), the cast includes stars like Angélica, Fafy Siqueira, the band “Polegar” (with Rafael Ilha as a heartthrob), a young Selton Mello, Gugu Liberato, and Supla, considered one of Brazil’s best comedians. Although the film aims for comedy, many jokes miss their mark. However, Supla’s performance, with his distinctive blend of New York and Jardins accents, consistently provides humor. His ripped band shirts, Rocky Balboa-esque physique, and punk accessories, combined with his unique language and attitude, make every scene he’s in a comedic highlight. In “A Clumsy School,” Tami (Angélica) and Carlão (Eduardo Smith de Vasconcelos Suplicy, or Supla) experience a tumultuous relationship, marked by constant bickering and reconciliations, culminating in an awkward birthday hug and finger nibble. Meanwhile, the band Polegar wins a trip to Aruba and concludes the film with a music video. “A Clumsy School” ultimately serves as a visual journey through Brazil’s awkward past, largely due to Supla’s performance, which elevates the film to a memorable level of unintentional humor.

“A Scrambled School” is a 90-minute Brazilian film from the ’90s, directed by Del Rangel. The cast includes Angélica, Supla, Fafy Siqueira, Jandira Martini, Selton Mello, Gugu Liberato, Renato Aragão, Dedé Santana, Mussum, Zacarias, and Grupo Polegar. The film, intended for a Brazilian audience, fits into the genre of juvenile films often set in American educational settings. It portrays a private Brazilian boarding school filled with dubious students and staff. However, the film’s attempt to emulate Hollywood results in a somewhat chaotic and disjointed narrative. The film’s script, based on adolescent stereotypes and themes like unplanned pregnancy and sexual harassment, unintentionally documents youth fantasies as conveyed through television at the time. Polegar wins a trip to Aruba at a school talent show, and the film concludes with a clip accompanied by a jingle from the defunct Varig (or Vasp) airline.

Scrambled School’s Cringeworthy Charm on Amazon Prime – Brazilian Comedy Goldmine with Supla

“A Scrambled School,” notable for Supla’s comedic performance, is currently available on Amazon Prime Video; however, streaming availability is subject to change. If you are looking for a dose of cringeworthy humor, “A Scrambled School” offers a unique and memorable viewing experience. Gather some friends, prepare for some laughs, and dive into this awkwardly charming piece of Brazilian cinema.