Guess What We Learned in School Today? 1971
"The Great American Obsession Gets Laid to Rest"
Guess What We Learned in School Today? (1971) is a sharp-edged comedy that dives into the absurdity of a small town's moral panic over sexuality. Directed by John G.
Director: John G. Avildsen
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Guess What We Learned in School Today? (1971) about?
The film follows a conservative town where adults, led by a powerless alcoholic and a closeted policeman, panic over sex education, labeling it a communist plot. Their denial of children's natural curiosity drives the story, blending satire with underground humor as the town's hypocrisy unravels.
Who directed Guess What We Learned in School Today??
The movie was directed by John G. Avildsen, best known for his work on *Rocky* and *The Karate Kid*.
Who stars in Guess What We Learned in School Today??
The cast features Dick Carballo, Devin Goldenberg, Jane McLeod, Yvonne McCall, and Rosella Olsen in key roles.
Is Guess What We Learned in School Today? (1971) worth watching?
While it's a cult curiosity with niche appeal, the film offers a fascinating snapshot of 1970s societal tensions and satirical storytelling. If you enjoy offbeat comedies with sharp social commentary, it's worth a look—but don't expect mainstream polish.
How long is Guess What We Learned in School Today??
The runtime is 96 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 36 minutes.
About Guess What We Learned in School Today? (1971) — A satirical comedy exposing small-town paranoia
Guess What We Learned in School Today? (1971) is a sharp-edged comedy that dives into the absurdity of a small town's moral panic over sexuality. Directed by John G. Avildsen, this 96-minute film follows a conservative community where parents and authorities—led by a feckless, impotent alcoholic and a closeted policeman—view sex education as a communist conspiracy. With an ensemble cast including Dick Carballo and Devin Goldenberg, the movie blends satire with underground energy, capturing the hypocrisy of adults who deny the natural curiosity of children while clinging to their own repressed desires.
Set in a stifling, judgmental backdrop, the film's tone oscillates between farce and biting critique, exposing how fear and ignorance can warp a community. Avildsen's direction infuses the story with a rebellious spirit, making it a time capsule of 1970s counterculture clashes. Whether you're drawn to its bold themes or its cult appeal, Guess What We Learned in School Today? offers a provocative, often hilarious look at the battles between tradition and progress.