Draft:Fast Times at Ridgemont High characters

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Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982) features a diverse ensemble of teenage characters, each representing different archetypes of high school life.[1] Set in early 1980s Southern California, the film follows several intersecting coming-of-age stories centered on students at the fictional Ridgemont High School. Major characters include surfer Jeff Spicoli, freshman Stacy Hamilton, her older brother Brad, Linda Barrett, Mike Damone, and Mark “Rat” Ratner. Their interactions explore themes of youthful rebellion, romance, and the trials of adolescence.[2]

Jeff Spicoli

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Jeff Spicoli (Sean Penn) is a perpetually stoned surfer and the quintessential slacker at Ridgemont High.[3] Known for his laid-back attitude, love of surfing, and spontaneous antics-such as having pizza delivered to class-he frequently clashes with his strict history teacher, Mr. Hand. Penn reportedly stayed in character off‑camera, adding to the authenticity of his performance.[3] Spicoli quickly became an archetype for the “surfer dude” and “stoner” in film, influencing numerous comedies for decades.[4][1] His catchphrases, including “Hey bud, let’s party!” and “All I need are some tasty waves, a cool buzz, and I’m fine,” remain part of popular culture.

Stacy Hamilton

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Stacy Hamilton (Jennifer Jason Leigh) is a 15‑year‑old freshman navigating peer pressure, first relationships, and an unplanned pregnancy. Guided by her friend Linda Barrett, Stacy’s storyline includes a nonjudgmental depiction of abortion-unusual for a teen comedy of its era-and ends with a tentative, respectful romance with Mark “Rat” Ratner.[2]

Brad Hamilton

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Brad Hamilton (Judge Reinhold) is Stacy’s older brother, a popular senior whose plans for a perfect final year unravel after he loses his job and girlfriend. His misadventures-including a stint in a pirate costume at a fast‑food restaurant-provide workplace comedy, and he ultimately rebounds with a promotion at a new job.

Linda Barrett

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Linda Barrett (Phoebe Cates) is Stacy’s confident best friend who often exaggerates her romantic experience. She is widely remembered for the swimming‑pool fantasy sequence, among the most referenced moments in 1980s teen cinema, and also serves as a protective figure for Stacy.[5][2]

Mike Damone

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Mike Damone (Robert Romanus) is a ticket scalper and self‑styled ladies’ man whose overconfidence collapses after he fails to support Stacy during her pregnancy, damaging friendships and reputation. His arc underscores the film’s theme of accountability.[2]

Mark “Rat” Ratner

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Mark “Rat” Ratner (Brian Backer) is Damone’s shy, polite best friend and a movie‑theater usher. He develops a crush on Stacy and treats her with respect; by the film’s end they begin a tentative romance.[2]

Mr. Hand

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Mr. Hand (Ray Walston) is Ridgemont High’s strict history teacher and Spicoli’s primary foil. Their adversarial dynamic-culminating in a prom‑night tutoring session-became a classic student–teacher comedy trope.[3][2]

Supporting characters

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Supporting roles include Charles Jefferson (Forest Whitaker), the school’s star football player; Mr. Vargas (Vincent Schiavelli), an eccentric biology teacher; and early appearances by Nicolas Cage, Eric Stoltz, and Anthony Edwards.[2][1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c "Librarian of Congress Adds 25 Films to National Film Registry". Library of Congress. December 20, 2005. Retrieved August 10, 2025.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Stevens, Dana (May 11, 2021). "Fast Times at Ridgemont High: A Kid's‑Eye View". The Criterion Collection. Retrieved August 10, 2025.
  3. ^ a b c Siegel, Alan (August 26, 2020). "The High Life of Jeff Spicoli". The Ringer. Retrieved August 10, 2025.
  4. ^ "1982: 'Fast Times' Hits Theaters". Entertainment Weekly. September 5, 2001. Retrieved August 10, 2025.
  5. ^ "How Phoebe Cates Felt About Her Fast Times At Ridgemont High Red Bikini Scene". Screen Rant. June 11, 2024. Retrieved August 10, 2025.
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