The Boys Next Door (DVD, 2001)

One of the earliest films starring a very young Charlie Sheen. A great movie if you are feeling angry and need a place to vent. Be aware that in can viewed as offensive to quite a wide variety of groups in society. It is the story of 2 teens who graduate from high school and are thrust into life and the struggles that come with it. They decide to go on one last hurrah weekend before they become part of the workforce and along they way, violence erupts as the 2 end up on a crime spree of anger.

If you like good kick ass movie this is one to buy you wont be dissapointed.
from start to the end you will be on the edge of your seat!

Maxwell Caulfield and Charlie Sheen star in this gritty thriller about two young and bored high school graduates who decide to take a trip to L.A. where they hope to find that life in the big city will be more interesting than small town U.S.A.

Of the two, Roy Olsen (Caulfield) is the more sullen and withdrawn, having almost surrendered to idea of starting work in the local factory following graduation. His best friend, Bo Richards (Sheen) appears to share his friend's disillusionment with the world, but not to such a great extent.

Arriving in L.A., the murders soon begin as Roy is witness to a wealth he can never hope to obtain.

Penelope Spheeris tackles the subject of the serial killer well, tackling themes such as greed and envy, racism and homophobia --- and ultimately jealousy. The film is similar --- in parts --- to 'Badlands', which starred Charlie's father, Martin Sheen. The scenes of violence are raw and some viewers may find this --- and the subject matter --- off-putting (be warned). Spheeris has also tuned into the early eighties punk movement, incorporating a blistering soundtrack to accompany her dark and equally raw direction.

Caulfield (The Real Blonde, Empire Records) stands out in this film as the psychotic high school killer, a role that stands in stark contrast to his role in 'Grease 2' --- his sullenness and anger and negativity radiate throughout the movie. Sheen (Platoon, Wall Street) also puts in a good performance as his reluctant sidekick.

Spheeris also cleverly injects some humour between the scenes of violence --- even Roy comes up with some real witty quips, despite his attitude. Her talent for comedy would be more evident in her later directorial efforts, 'Waynes World' and 'Black Sheep'.

Although seemingly pointless violence, the film offers an insight into the mind of a young psychopath and also into the world of the modern teenager without a future. A good effort.

There is an excellent director's commentary with Spheeris and Caulfield and some other extras that come with this DVD.

Also stars Christopher MacDonald (Grease 2, Happy Gilmore) and Beverly D'Angelo. Apparently Anthony 'Chilli Peppers' Kiedis' father also has a role in the film.

Matt Lee-Williams, Review