American Graffiti

American Graffiti is a 1973 film which is George Lucas's paean to the innocence of the early 1960s. Written by Lucas, Gloria Katz[?] and Willard Huyck[?], it tells the story of a group of small-town middle-class American California teenagers on the last night of the summer. It starred Richard Dreyfuss (Curt Henderson), Ron Howard (Steve Bolander), Paul Le Mat (John Milner), Charles Martin Smith[?] (Terry Fields), Candy Clark[?], Cindy Williams[?], Mackenzie Phillips[?] and Harrison Ford. It also featured the disc jockey Wolfman Jack.

The film focuses on vignettes about the 4 young men: Curt, Steve, Terry, and John. Curt isn't sure he wants to go off to college, despite receiving a lodge scholarship, much to Steve's consternation. Steve, on the other hand, isn't sure about his relationship with steady girlfriend Laurie, Curt's sister. Curt spends the whole night riding around in other people's cars obsessing about a mysterious blonde in a White Thunderbird.

John splits his time between trying to pick up girls and defending his reputation as the fastest drag racer in town. Terry uses Steve's car to pick up a girl.

THe movie gained some of its popularity through its music. Complete Soundtrack Discography of American Graffiti

Warning: Wikipedia contains spoilers

Ironically, by the end of the night it's Curt who goes while Steve decides to stay in town and settle down with Laurie.

The film was nominated for several Academy Awards:

• Best Actress in a Supporting Role - Candy Clark
• Best Director - George Lucas
• Best Film Editing - Verna Fields[?] and Marcia Lucas[?]
• Best Picture - Francis Ford Coppola and Gary Kurtz[?]
• Best Writing, Story and Screenplay Based on Factual Material or Material Not Previously Published or Produced - Willard Huyck, Gloria Katz and George Lucas

The film is included in the National Film Registry.