REVENGE OF THE NERDS mirrors
National Lampoon's Animal House, with one retaliation scene after another. But there's something decidedly different here: the nerds are really nice guys, which gives this film a more heartwarming vibe. While the story has heart and Gilbert, Lewis, and the rest of the nerds are likable, this film is definitely "college kids gone wild." There's plenty of binge drinking, sex talk, making out, nudity, foul language, and a little pot smoking. While the nerds use their smarts to get back at the jocks, they also cheat in a competition. None of the characters are shown studying or attending classes.
Stereotypes abound, and there's rampant bad behavior, sure, but there's a strong positive message about acceptance to enjoy, too. Unlike the protagonists in Animal House, the heroes in this film are sweet, smart guys who just want to be treated with the respect they deserve. The story shows the unfair treatment of people considered outsiders, and in the end, emphasizes the acceptance of outsiders.