IF it wasn't for having such fond memories of Wayne's World and Ferris Bueller, this film would be more of a winner.

It's an engaging teen movie, with some truly funny scenes, but somehow after the true hilarity of the Wayne and Ferris classics, the humour seems a little thin.

The film tells the story of Shaun, played by rising star Colin Hanks, who is a clever but aimless Californian surfer. A surprise discovery of a book half-buried in sand leads him to realise that his future lies in becoming an author.

He then becomes transfixed with achieving his dream which, in his mind, hinges upon the crucial necessity of studying at the renowned Stanford University.

When his plan all goes terribly wrong, the gloves are off and he becomes obsessed with having his way.

He is aided in his nutty resolve by girlfriend Ashley (Schuyler Fisk), and brother Lance (funnyman Jack Black), who provides some of the more slapstick orientated scenes.

Lily Tomlin, John Lithgow and Harold Ramis add some adult ballast to the teen crew, who together pull off a very watchable tale, ending with a charming hint of moral guidance.

SCC