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Shag (1989)

1989 • 1h 38m • Drama, Comedy • PG
On September 23, 2026
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Wuchak on Shag

8/10 · May 27, 2018

Zelda Barron directed "Shag" in 1989, and it's a teen drama centering on four recent high school graduates who spend a vacation weekend at Myrtle Beach in 1963. The characters are Luanne, the senator’s daughter (played by Page Hannah); Carson, who is engaged (or maybe trapped) (Phoebe Cates); Malaina, hoping to become a Hollywood star (Bridget Fonda); and Pudge, who worries about her weight (Annabeth Gish). The film feels like a combination of "American Graffiti" (1973), “Dirty Dancing” (1987) and “Mystic Pizza” (1988). It’s much better than the overpraised "American Graffiti," and it avoids the silly side plot that drags down “Dirty Dancing.” The story quickly introduces these four girls to the weekend events at Myrtle Beach, which then divides into several short scenes that connect with each other. The most memorable parts of the weekend include a beauty contest on the beach, an out-of-control party at the senator’s vacation home (which he doesn't know about), and a shag dance competition. The movie seems to suggest finding a sensible balance between strict rules and reckless behavior. Some people have labeled this as a film aimed primarily at women because it focuses on those four girls, but there’s plenty here for guys to enjoy too. There are several attractive women in the cast, both among the main characters and in smaller roles. The director has a good eye for portraying women; Bridget Fonda is especially well-presented, with her scenes wearing a white bikini being particularly noteworthy. She was 23 during filming in 1987. Several male actors also appear: Harley (Tyrone Power Jr.), Buzz (Robert Rusler), Chip (Scott Coffey), Jimmy Valentine (Jeff Yagher) and, to a lesser degree, the manager (Paul Lieber) and Big Bob (Jay Baker). The film also has a great soundtrack from the period, including “Stay” by The Voltage Brothers, which is performed (lip-synced) at The Pavilion. "Shag" lasts 1 hour and 38 minutes and was filmed entirely in South Carolina, specifically Georgetown, Myrtle Beach & Florence. Lanier Laney, Terry Sweeney & Robin Swicord wrote the script. The grade is a B+.

Source on TMDB