‘High School High’ Deserves Average Marks

Jon Lovitz takes a flying leap into stardom with “High School High,” a picture that doesn’t give the likable comedian half a chance.

No matter. Lovitz makes his own chances and ultimately prevails over a movie whose odd blend of rude slapstick and up-with-people cheerleading might defeat a lesser player.

“High School High” comes from David Zucker, one of the parties responsible for all those “Airplane!”/ “Naked Gun”/”Kentucky Fried Movie” comedies. The new film aims to spoof the inner-city student-motivation genre of movies, such as “Dangerous Minds” (1995) and “Stand and Deliver” (1988).

Lovitz is terrific as a dedicated teacher who’ll risk all to bring enlightenment to a disadvantaged school.

Zucker’s collaborative screenplay, however, veers so wildly between parody and reverence that it’s hard to tell what’s supposed to be funny.

A late lapse into a mobster subplot seems a last-ditch attempt to energize a story.

Mekhi Phifer is impressive as a would-be student leader, but most of the kids are quick-sketch stereotypes.

Tia Carrere, a spirited look-alike for Raquel Welch, plays an aggressive romantic interest. Louise Fletcher does her usual mean-spirited authority figure.

Director Hart Bochner, who last helmed an “Animal House” knockoff called “PCU,” displays a great deal of wit but never the courage to press along into satire.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: “High School High” Locations: Lincoln Heights, North Division and Coeur d’Alene cinemas Credits: Directed by Hart Bochner, featuring Jon Lovitz and Tia Carrere Running time: 1:26 Rating: PG-13