The Legend of Billie Jean

This is an excellent movie for young people, in general. It shows how one has to fight for one's principles, as it's the case with Billie Jean, a girl living in the Texas coastal town of Corpus Christi. As directed by Matthew Robbins, this film will never cease to amaze.

After he brother's motorcycle is trashed by a group of rough teenagers. Billie Jean wants the father of the boy who gave a beating to her brother, to pay for the repair of the bike. This is a man who, knowing where Billie Jean comes from, tries to abuse the girl sexually. He doesn't know who he is messing with.

The movie deals with the way Billie Jean goes about in getting her revenge against all odds. In doing so, she becomes an instant celebrity to the young population in the area, who easily identify with the wronged girl and make her a folk hero.

Helen Slater makes a sunny appearance as Billie Jean. She is a girl who believes in justice, and demands it from the man who wanted to take advantage of her. A young, blond Christian Slater is Binx, the young brother. Peter Coyote is also seen as the chief of police who Billie Jean goes to present her complaint, but doesn't have enough sense to pay attention to her.

Never underestimate a determined woman who is wronged. Whoever thinks otherwise will probably get his own Billie Jean to her point.

I sort of look at this film as a cult classic. I see it as sort of a 1980s Rebel Without A Cause. Helen Slater is another actress who has really never been given just credit. She made her film debut the year before in Supergirl and it was a film everyone made fun of. I don't think thats fair to her, because she is a fine actress and proves it here. Unlike James Dean's character, she does "have the right to be angry" and fights back against a corrupt system. Some people may say this film condones vigilante activities, but I think this is a film with a positive message. I also loved Pat Benetar's song "We Will Be Invincible", it should have gotten an Oscar.

I saw this movie when I was a kid, and it instantly became one of my personal favorites. Helen Slater's performance is unforgettable about a young girl and her instant rebel/outlaw status. This is definitely a cult favorite, and appropriately so. For some undescribable reason, this film grabs at you in a way that most movies never do. You seem to care a lot for Billie Jean, and want her to get the justice she deserves. Every rebellious youth should see this film so they can see what happens on both sides of the law, and for a highly entertaining movie. Full of 80's music (especially the kick-ass Pat Benatar theme song), The Legend of Billie Jean is truly a remarkable film that was overlooked by too many people for its brilliance.

I have seen this movie so many times it's ridiculous. I have never rented it, but I know all of the lines because it comes on so often. I forced my husband to watch it with me once, and now he has to watch it whenever it comes on. After seeing this movie once it becomes strangely addictive. It's not even that good. It's actually very cheesy, especially when the movie compares Billie Jean to Joan of Arc. But it's a perfect example of a great 80's movie. The music is good and very catchy. Plus, it features a young Christian Slater. And remember, "fair is fair!!"

The Legend of Billy Jean (1985) was one of your typical 80's movies. It's hopelessly dated but back in the day it was a real hoot to watch on T.V. The story is about two siblings that cross paths with some older punks. Billy Jean is the name of the main character(Helen Slater, looking good) and she tries to fight for what she believes is right "Fair is fair!" He brother is played by the infamous Christian Slater (sans Jack Nicholson accent). They some how come across a lecherous sleaze ball and get into all kinds of shenanigans. It has to be seen to be believed. You also get co-star appearances from Yeardly Smith (Lisa Simpson) Keith Gordon, Dean Stockwell and mondo footage from Jeanne D'Arc. You can't say you're a true fan of 80's flicks until you've seen this one.

Recommend for nostalgia purposes.

Factoid: Carolyn Williams (Texas Chainsaw Massacre II) makes a quick appearance as a woman who spots Billy Jean.