Making the Grade Poster

Making the Grade 1984

★ 4.925 votes105 min📅 1984-05-18

"If you can't make it...fake it!"

Dive into the 1984 comedy classic *Making the Grade* directed by Dorian Walker, a clever satire wrapped in preppy chaos. The story follows Palmer Woodrow, a lazy rich kid who outsources his education to street-smart Eddie Keaton while he parties in Europe.

Director: Dorian Walker

Cast

Judd Nelson
Judd Nelson
Eddie Keaton
Dana Olsen
Palmer Woodrow
Jonna Lee
Jonna Lee
Tracey Hoover
Gordon Jump
Gordon Jump
Mr. Harriman
Walter Olkewicz
Walter Olkewicz
Coach Wordman
Ronald Lacey
Ronald Lacey
Nicky
Dan Schneider
Dan Schneider
Blimp
Andrew Dice Clay
Andrew Dice Clay
Dice
John Dye
John Dye
Skip
Carey Scott
Carey Scott
Rand

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Making the Grade (1984) about?

This 1984 comedy follows Palmer Woodrow, a carefree rich kid who hires a street-smart substitute to attend his elite school while he travels in Europe. But when the substitute falls for Palmer's crush and gambling debts come due, the plan collapses into a tangled web of loyalties and chaos.

Who directed Making the Grade?

Dorian Walker directed this sharp-witted '80s comedy, blending satire with the chaotic energy of its preppy setting.

Who stars in Making the Grade?

The film features Judd Nelson as Eddie Keaton, Dana Olsen as Palmer Woodrow, Jonna Lee as Tracey, and supporting roles from Gordon Jump, Walter Olkewicz, and Ronald Lacey.

Is Making the Grade (1984) worth watching?

As a mid-tier '80s comedy, *Making the Grade* isn't a masterpiece, but it's a fun, nostalgic romp with engaging performances and a premise that's hard to resist. Fans of lighthearted deception stories will enjoy its charm.

How long is Making the Grade?

The runtime for *Making the Grade (1984)* is 105 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Making the Grade (1984) — The '80s Comedy Where Identity Hits the Books

Dive into the 1984 comedy classic *Making the Grade* directed by Dorian Walker, a clever satire wrapped in preppy chaos. The story follows Palmer Woodrow, a lazy rich kid who outsources his education to street-smart Eddie Keaton while he parties in Europe. But when Eddie's gambling debts and a budding romance with Palmer's crush, Tracey, complicate things, the line between friend and foe blurs. With a bully breathing down their necks and Palmer's sudden return, the scheme spirals into hilarious mayhem. Walker's direction balances sharp wit with lighthearted antics, making *Making the Grade (1984)* a standout comedy about deception, identity, and the absurd lengths people go to avoid reality.

Judd Nelson and Dana Olsen lead the cast with charismatic performances, while the playful premise—"If you can't make it... fake it!"—sets the tone for a film that's as much about the journey as the laughs. Whether you're a fan of '80s comedies or just love a good underdog story, this cult favorite delivers escapism with a wink.