Rock 'n' Roll High School

Rock 'n' Roll High School

Year: 1979

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Directors: Joe Dante, Allan Arkush

ComedyMusic

A rebellious teenager and his band challenge the strict rules of their high school, clashing with the uptight vice principal. Through energetic performances and a defiant spirit, they fight for the freedom to express their musical identity. The film is a comedic celebration of rock and roll and a spirited fight against authority.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Rock 'n' Roll High School yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Rock 'n' Roll High School (1979)

Trace every key event in Rock 'n' Roll High School (1979) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Introduction of Miss Evelyn Togar

The school board meets to announce Miss Evelyn Togar as the new principal of Vince Lombardi High School. This follows the unfortunate breakdown of her predecessor, highlighting the challenges posed by the unruly student body.

Vince Lombardi High School
2

Riff and Kate Hijack the PA System

During a school meeting, Riff Randell and her friend Kate Rambeau take control of the PA system to perform 'Sheena Is a Punk Rocker.' Their celebration is interrupted when Miss Togar swiftly punishes them with detention slips.

School meeting room
3

Miss Togar's Warning

Miss Togar warns the students about the severe academic issues at Vince Lombardi High, which has been drastically affected by their obsession with rock music. She declares her intention to restore order and focus on academics.

Vince Lombardi High School
4

Tom's Crush on Riff

Tom Roberts, the school's quarterback, struggles to express his affection for Riff. To navigate his feelings, he approaches Eaglebauer, the school's 'fixer', hoping for advice on how to ask her out.

Boys' restroom
5

Riff's Aspiration to Meet the Ramones

Riff, who dreams of showcasing her song 'Rock 'n' Roll High School,' aims to meet the Ramones, particularly Joey Ramone. Amidst her efforts, Miss Togar's monitors take steps against rock music's influence at school.

Vince Lombardi High School
6

Ticket Purchasing Competition

Riff stands anxiously in line to buy tickets for the upcoming Ramones concert. However, she faces comedic hurdles as Kate concocts various excuses to justify Riff's absence from school, leading to a competitive atmosphere.

Ticket line
7

Miss Togar Confiscates Tickets

After Riff successfully obtains 100 concert tickets and distributes them, Miss Togar commands the tickets’ confiscation. Defiance brews among the girls, leading them to retreat to Riff's home in protest.

Riff's house
8

Concert Night Arrives

On concert night, excitement fills the air, and absurd situations arise including a mouse almost denied entry. Riff compels herself to speak out against Miss Togar, asserting the students' determination to enjoy the concert.

Concert venue
9

The Ramones Take the Stage

With the Ramones performing, Riff and Kate lose themselves in the music, boosting their confidence. Riff also finds a chance to pass her song to Joey, recognizing a step towards her dreams while chaos ensues.

Concert venue
10

Student Rebellion Begins

In response to Miss Togar's strictness, the students unite to stage a rebellion against her regime. The Ramones rally the students with a powerful anthem celebrating freedom, escalating the atmosphere of celebration.

Vince Lombardi High School
11

Miss Togar's Downfall

As the chaotic festivities unfold, Miss Togar's mental state spirals downwards, unable to control the students any longer. The governing authority of the school seems to crumble before the spirited students.

Vince Lombardi High School
12

The Explosive Finale

In a dramatic climax, Riff sets off a bomb in a last effort to liberate herself and her peers from Miss Togar's reign. The resulting explosion signifies the end of her rule and sparks wild celebrations among the students.

Vince Lombardi High School
13

Miss Togar is Taken Away

Amidst the chaos and joy, law enforcement arrives to address the situation. Miss Togar is captured and taken away in a straight-jacket, suffering the same fate as the previous principals.

Vince Lombardi High School
14

Students Look Forward to the Future

As the dust settles, the joyful students prepare to leave the school with aspirations for their next adventures. They embody the spirit of rock and roll, liberated from the restrictions once imposed by Miss Togar.

Vince Lombardi High School

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 12:34

Unlock the Full Story of Rock 'n' Roll High School

Don't stop at just watching — explore Rock 'n' Roll High School in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Rock 'n' Roll High School is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Rock 'n' Roll High School Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Rock 'n' Roll High School, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Rock 'n' Roll High School Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Rock 'n' Roll High School

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Rock 'n' Roll High School. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Rock 'n' Roll High School

More About Rock 'n' Roll High School

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Rock 'n' Roll High School: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Rock 'n' Roll High School

Similar Movies to Rock 'n' Roll High School

Discover movies like Rock 'n' Roll High School that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.