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License to Drive, the 1988 teen comedy film, was a major part of the late ’80s and early ’90s pop culture. With a youthful, dynamic cast that helped bring the story to life, the movie became a nostalgic favorite for many. Directed by Greg Beeman, the film revolves around a teenager, Les Anderson, who is eager to pass his driving test and impress a girl, but things take an unexpected turn. If you’re curious about the actors and actresses who brought this classic to life, read on as we dive into the License to Drive cast list and their roles!
Introduction to License to Drive
Released on July 14, 1988, License to Drive starred a host of fresh faces, alongside established actors of the time. The story follows Les Anderson (Corey Haim), a teenager on the verge of getting his driver’s license. However, when his test goes awry, he ends up driving his grandfather’s car, a 1972 Cadillac, into a series of misadventures. Alongside him is his best friend, Dean, played by Corey Feldman. The film is a hilarious rollercoaster ride filled with teen angst, rebelliousness, and typical 80s charm. With the blend of comedy and heartfelt moments, it’s no surprise that it became a beloved classic among fans of teen comedies.
The Core Cast of License to Drive
Corey Haim as Les Anderson
Perhaps the most iconic role in the movie is that of Les Anderson, played by Corey Haim. Haim, who was known for his roles in several teen films during the ’80s and early ’90s, portrayed the lovable, but somewhat irresponsible teenager who just wants to pass his driving test and impress the girl of his dreams. Haim’s portrayal of Les earned him recognition, and the character remains one of his most memorable roles in a career that saw him becoming one of Hollywood’s favorite teen idols.
Corey Feldman as Dean
Joining Haim as the wisecracking, always-enthusiastic best friend, Dean, is Corey Feldman. Feldman was another one of the biggest teen stars of the ’80s, having appeared in films such as The Goonies and Stand by Me. In License to Drive, Feldman brings his trademark energy and humor to the role of Dean, who urges his friend Les to take risks and go after what he wants. Feldman’s performance is pivotal in providing the film with much of its comedic moments.
Heather Graham as Mercedes Lane
Heather Graham played Mercedes Lane, the love interest of Les, in the film. Known for her roles in Boogie Nights and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Graham portrays the charming and somewhat mysterious girl who catches Les’ eye. While her role as Mercedes Lane wasn’t her first, it helped to solidify her as a leading lady in Hollywood, with her career taking off in the years following the release of the movie.
Caroline McWilliams as Mrs. Anderson
Caroline McWilliams portrayed Les’ mother, Mrs. Anderson, in the film. While McWilliams had several roles in television series such as Soap and Shameless, her role in License to Drive is a notable one. Her character is a good-natured, caring mother who gets caught in the whirlwind of Les’ wild plans. Her performance added a layer of warmth to the movie, balancing the antics of the teens.
Richard Masur as Mr. Anderson
Richard Masur plays Les’ father, Mr. Anderson, in the film. Known for his roles in a wide array of films, including My Girl and The Thing, Masur brought a no-nonsense, yet compassionate energy to the role of Les’ dad, who is oblivious to the chaotic adventures that Les embarks on in his quest to impress Mercedes.
Supporting Cast and Memorable Appearances
Michael Manasseri as Charles
Michael Manasseri played the role of Charles, Mercedes’ date before Les comes into the picture. Though a minor role, his character adds to the conflict of the film, as Les tries to navigate his feelings while dealing with a rival for Mercedes’ attention. Manasseri’s performance is both entertaining and relatable, as his character represents a more refined, and slightly oblivious love interest compared to Les’ goofy nature.
Thom Bray as Mr. Kroeger
Thom Bray played the driving instructor, Mr. Kroeger, whose interactions with Les provide a mixture of tension and humor. Bray is perhaps best known for his role in the television series Jake and the Fatman, but in License to Drive, his brief but memorable role as a somewhat clueless driving instructor adds a touch of levity to the more serious moments.
The Legacy of License to Drive
Even though License to Drive didn’t become a massive blockbuster at the time of its release, it has since achieved a level of cult status in the world of teen comedies. The film captures a time and era that many people look back on fondly, with the rise of teen comedy and an emphasis on coming-of-age narratives. Corey Haim and Corey Feldman, both incredibly popular in the 1980s, also became iconic teen stars as a result of their work in this movie.
The Chemistry Between Haim and Feldman
The undeniable chemistry between Corey Haim and Corey Feldman is one of the main reasons why License to Drive remains a beloved classic. Their real-life friendship translated onto the screen, making their characters feel authentic and their comedic timing impeccable. Both actors had an easygoing, natural rapport, which made their performances feel real, and contributed greatly to the film’s lasting appeal. While their other projects as a duosuch as The Lost Boysmay be more well-known, License to Drive is still an important part of their shared legacy in Hollywood.
Impact on 1980s Teen Culture
The movie was not only about the performances, but also captured a specific teen culture of the 1980s. The oversized clothes, neon colors, and flashy cars are all indicative of the time. For those who were teenagers during the late ’80s, License to Drive feels like a time capsule of their youthful experiences. It’s a snapshot of the carefree, rebellious spirit of the time, wrapped up in a hilarious, entertaining package.
Experiences Related to the Cast and Legacy
Reflecting on the License to Drive cast and the movie’s cultural impact, it’s clear that the film holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up watching it. The performances by Corey Haim and Corey Feldman have stood the test of time, and their natural chemistry on screen made them the perfect duo. Many fans of the movie recall the first time they watched it, often laughing along with Les and Dean as they went on wild, reckless adventures.
For many, watching License to Drive was a rite of passage. It was a film that highlighted the excitement and complications of adolescence, something everyone could relate to in some way. Whether it was the trials and tribulations of getting a driver’s license, or the heart-pounding moments of first love, the film captured the feeling of growing up in a way that resonated deeply with audiences.
The film’s impact wasn’t just about its actors; it was also about the shared experiences it brought to a generation. For those who watched it in theaters or on VHS, License to Drive became one of those films you quoted with friends, laughed about during sleepovers, or reminisced about during long car rides. The movie was more than just a comedy; it was a cultural marker for a generation who cherished its humor, themes, and relatable characters.
Conclusion
The cast of License to Drive brought a combination of humor, warmth, and heart to a film that continues to entertain fans of all ages. From Corey Haim’s portrayal of the awkward yet loveable Les, to Corey Feldman’s energetic role as Dean, the movie holds up as one of the quintessential teen comedies of the late ’80s. With memorable performances, a touch of nostalgia, and an enduring friendship on screen, License to Drive remains a beloved classic of teen cinema.
