Because he's the oldest, Jake has been the man of the house, since his parents divorce. When Mom starts seeing Sam, who always seems to be trying some new way to get rich quick, and declares he's the man of the house now, Jake puts up with it. Until he discovers Sam's illegal activities.
Acting
Peter Weller's terrifying charisma as Sam.
Direction
Michael Apted squeezing dread from suburban normalcy.
Writing
Kid-protagonist who actually acts like a desperate teenager.
Director
Michael Apted
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was Corey Haim's first film role; he and Christopher Collet became close friends and would later star together in The Lost Boys.
Released during the 'Just Say No' era, the film's casual depiction of suburban cocaine distribution was unusually raw for a teen-focused drama.
US
