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The first problem is that Dave thinks Link is acting too much like Stoney. Dave doesn’t like this because he sees Link as his ticket to popularity and Stoney is not popular. This begins to form a rift between the two best friends. Another problem is that Robyn becomes interested in Link. When this happens, Dave tries to get rid of Link but this angers Stoney who accuses Dave of only being interested in using Link.

Meanwhile Matt is trying to find out what he can about Link’s mysterious past. He breaks into Dave’s room and finds pictures of Link in the ice block. At the prom he hopes to expose Link but this just makes him even more popular. Afterwards everybody actually does go to Dave’s party. Once they get there, Stoney and Link are shocked to find Link’s cavewoman in Dave’s room. So in the end Link gets his girl, Dave gets his and Pauly Shore gets a couple of more years of fame.

I’ll be the first to admit that this movie is the definition of playing it safe. If you’re surprised by anything in this movie, this might be the first movie you’ve ever seen. But it’s still enjoyable. The performances are the movie’s biggest assets. But if you find Pauly Shore annoying, this movie won’t change your mind. Fortunately the movie doesn’t rest completely on his shoulders.

This was his first starring role but he’s actually a part of the ensemble rather than the movie’s main star. Just how much “acting” he’s really doing is up for debate but he’s entertaining without being overpowering. Plus there is something to be said about someone who not only doesn’t care that other people think he’s a loser, but he embraces it with a smile.

This is the second movie I’ve written about for this site that stars Astin. (The first one was Rudy.) I hadn’t ever really given it much thought before but he’s a very likable actor. Even though he does some things that aren’t so nice - to set up the movie’s main conflict - you can’t help but root for this guy.

But the breakout star from this movie was definitely Fraser. His performance as Link is understated and great. He’s basically the embodiment of what Dave wishes he was; mysterious, athletic, and most importantly popular. Fraser immerses himself in the role and he wins you over without ever saying much.

It’s easy to forget but this movie is actually quite funny. The jokes aren’t the greatest but it’s the way they’re delivered that makes them enjoyable. The actors really do have great chemistry and it feels like you’re tagging along with some friends. The teachers that are seen are also quite funny and believable.

Encino Man is not quite a classic but it does have its charm. And if anything it’s worth watching just to laugh at some of the early 90s fashion and music that has not stood the test of time. The movie actually plays “I’m too sexy for my shirt” in a non ironic way. Even though the movie came out 20 years ago, some things never change and there will always be people who can relate to being tortured in high school. And aside from offering some good laughs the movie it encourages people to be themselves, which is an idea we can all support.

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