Drive Me Crazy (1999)

### Drive Me Crazy (1999) In the quintessential late-90s teen rom-com *Drive Me Crazy*, audiences are introduced to Nicole Maris (Melissa Joan Hart) and Chase Hammond (Adrian Grenier), who, despite living next door, appear to be worlds apart. Nicole, the popular cheerleader, and Chase, the rebellious alt-rocker, concoct a clever scheme: they'll pretend to date each other. Their cunning plan aims to ignite the interest and jealousy of their respective romantic targets, drawing them closer to their true desires – Nicole hopes to win back her basketball star boyfriend, and Chase wants to attract the bohemian girl of his dreams. However, as they navigate the complexities of their fake relationship and throw themselves into planning their school's elaborate gala centennial celebration, the lines between pretense and genuine affection begin to blur. Through witty banter, missteps, and unexpected moments of connection, Nicole and Chase slowly come to the profound realization that the person they truly desired, the one who genuinely understood them, was right there beside them all along. This charming film, buoyed by its iconic soundtrack and engaging performances, delivers a timeless message about looking beyond superficial differences to find true love. --- ### Why it belongs on the "Best John Schultz Movies" list: John Schultz’s direction of *Drive Me Crazy* solidifies its place on a "Best John Schultz Movies" list due to his adept handling of the quintessential late-90s teen romantic comedy genre. Schultz demonstrated a clear understanding of the era's sensibilities, crafting a film that perfectly balanced humor, genuine emotional arcs, and the vibrant energy of youth culture. He effectively guided Melissa Joan Hart and Adrian Grenier in performances that felt authentic and relatable, transforming a classic "fake dating" trope into something genuinely charming and enduring. While Schultz has a diverse filmography, *Drive Me Crazy* stands out as one of his most beloved and culturally resonant contributions, capturing the nostalgic spirit of a generation. His direction ensures that the film is not just a collection of teen movie clichés, but a well-paced, character-driven story that remains enjoyable and rewatchable, showcasing his talent for delivering feel-good entertainment that connects with audiences on a personal level. It's a prime example of his ability to craft a commercially successful and critically appreciated film within a popular genre.