Lamplight Drivel

SPOILERS! 1982's THE LAST AMERICAN VIRGIN is quite the schizophrenic experience.   The tone shifts often, and rather clumsily at that.   I dismissed much of it while it unfolded, but reflection only helped this movie.  Israeli writer/director Boaz Davidson, remaking his popular LEMON POPSICLE film, has fashioned what appears to be a typical '80s horny teenager saga, and it most certainly is that.  During the first two thirds, at least.  The last twenty minutes or so get more serious, but even earlier the darker, lonelier moments of high school life are effectively captured in moments.  Crudely, but the honesty is there. Gary (Lawrence Monoson) is instantly smitten with new girl Karen (Diane Franklin).  He makes eye contact with her at the ice cream parlor and is speechless.   He eventually gives her a lift to school after he deflates the tire on her motorcycle.  But she gives him the dreaded "friend" vibe.   While Gar...