Michelle Maynerk Not an A-list celebrity, but she was a low-key staple of 1980s cinema, known for her quirky charm and ability to bring eccentric characters to life. Born in Vancouver, Canada, Meyrink pursued her passion for acting at a young age, quickly making a name for herself in Hollywood (via The biography). She started with small but memorable roles in films like The aliens And Valley girlBut her big break came with the 1984 cult classic Revenge of the Nerdswhere she played Judy, a lovable “womanizer”.
Meyrink’s career continued with roles in films like Real geniusWhere her portrayal of the hyperactive genius Jordan Cochran became one of her most celebrated performances. Although she left acting in the late 80s, her roles in movies like One Magic Christmas And Permanent record Showed her versatility, leaving a lasting impression on the cinema of the decade. And Meyrink did not leave the actor behind – in 2013 she opened an acting school in her native Vancouver, called Actorium.
10
Joy of Sex (1984)
Leslie Hindenberg
in Joy of sexMichelle Meyrink plays Leslie Hindenberg, a funny and eccentric high school student in this raunchy teen comedy. Loosely based on the best-selling sex manual of the same name, the film tries to capture the awkwardness of teenage sexuality and the humor that comes with it. Meyrink’s character becomes embroiled in the various antics of high school life as the students navigate their passions and relationships. Despite its terrific premise, the film struggled with critical reception and failed to resonate with a wider audience.
Meyrink’s portrayal of Leslie added a dose of her signature offbeat charmBut the film didn’t offer her the screen time she deserved. While it was a small stepping stone in her career, Joy of sex remains one of Meyrink’s lesser-known works. The film’s failure to find widespread popularity caused it to fade into obscurity, but it allowed Meyrink to develop her comedic style, which she would later refine in more successful projects.
9
Nice Girls Don’t Explode (1987)
April Flowers
in Nice girls don’t explodeMichelle Meyrink stars as April Flowers, a young woman convinced by her overprotective mother that her emotions could cause her to literally explode. This quirky comedy plays into Meyrink’s natural ability to take on strange roles, with her character embodying innocence mixed with absurdity. April’s interactions with potential romantic interests drive the story, and Meyrink shines in moments of comedic timing as she navigates awkward situations.
The film’s unusual premise and Meyrink’s charming performance Nice girls don’t explode A unique cinema experienceAlthough it did not achieve mainstream success. Fans of ’80s comedies remember the film for its quirky concept, and Meyrink’s portrayal of April is an example of her skill in handling unconventional material. Despite its limited appeal, the film holds a special place among viewers who appreciate quirky humor.
8
Tonight’s The Night (1987)
Steffy
in Tonight’s the nightA made-for-TV romantic comedy, Michelle Meyrink plays Steffy, a character embroiled in the romantic mishaps and misunderstandings typical of the genre. Released in the late 80s, this movie offers a feel-good, lighthearted story centered on the lives of quirky, lovable characters. Meyrink’s role as Steffy gave her an opportunity to bring her signature charm to television. The plot revolves around the comedic miscommunications between couples, allowing Meyrink to provide moments of warmth and levity.
While Tonight’s the night It did not achieve the success or acclaim of Meyrink’s theater work, but it paired her with several seasoned television actors, including Belinda Bauer and Ken Olin. The film may have flown under the radar as a made-for-television production, but it still offered Meyrink a platform to flex her comedic chops in the rom-com genre. For fans of ’80s TV, this is a lesser-known gem that showcases her versatility as an actress.
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Permanent Record (1988)
Mg
in Permanent recordMichelle Meyrink delivers a dramatic turn as MG, her final film role before stepping away from Hollywood. The film, centered around the tragic suicide of a high school student and its aftermath, allowed Meirnik to showcase a more serious, emotional performance. Her character, a part of the sad community, Adds to the emotional depth of the film, contrasting with her previous comedic roles.
Permanent record Was praised for its sensitive handling of difficult subject matter, and featured a very underrated performance by a young Keanu Reeves as outsider Chris Townsend, but the movie did not achieve widespread box office success. Meyrink’s departure from acting after this role has many wondering what direction her career would have taken had she continued. Nevertheless, her performance in Permanent record Remains a significant part of her filmography, showing her range as an actress.
6
Valley girl
Susie Burns
In the ’80s teen rom-com, Valley girlLoosely based on Shakespeare’s Romeo & JulietMichelle Meyrink plays Susie Brent, a friend of the main character, Julie (Deborah Forman). The film, which tells the story of a love affair between valley girl Julie and Randy (Nicolas Cage in one of his first film roles), a Hollywood punk, became a defining piece of 80s pop culture.. Meirink’s character provides comic relief and adds to the lively teenage ensemble that makes the film popular.
Although not a central role, Suzy Brent remains memorable for fans of the film, and Valley girl Continues to be celebrated for its portrayal of ’80s teen culture, music and fashion. My small but significant part in the film cemented her as a favorite character actor of the era. And while teen movies became less and less respected by film critics, Valley girl Sitting at an impressive 84% on Rotten Tomatoes.
5
One Magic Christmas (1985)
Betty
Michelle Meyrink portrays Betty, a supporting character in One Magic ChristmasA holiday film about a family rediscovering the magic of Christmas. The film stars Mary Steenburgen as Ginny Grainger, A mother struggling with financial and emotional burdens, who learns to believe again in Christmas miracles with the help of an angel. Meirink’s role as Betty adds to the ensemble, contributing warmth and support to the storyline.
Although the film did not become a massive commercial success, it remains a beloved holiday classic for families who enjoy nostalgic Christmas movies. Working alongside accomplished actors such as Harry Dean Stanton and Mary Steenburgen, Meirink’s softer, more sentimental role gave her a departure from her usual comedic fare.. While some find it difficult and think of One Magic Christmas As one of the sad Christmas movies, it still has a message of hope and its depth cements it as a holiday classic.
One Magic Christmas
Gideon, a Christmas angel, is sent by Santa Claus to help Ginny Grainger, a tired and skeptical woman who hates Christmas. Ginny goes through great difficulties, which makes it even more difficult to get her to believe in invisible things.
- Director
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Philip Borsos
- Release date
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November 22, 1985
- runtime
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89 minutes
4
Family Ties (1982-1989)
Jane – Season 2, Episode 13 “M is for the Many Things” (1984)
In her one-episode appearance in the iconic sitcom Family tiesMichelle Meyrink played Jane, a minor character in a season 2 episode. Family ties was one of the most popular television shows of the 1980s, starring Michael J. Fox as Alex P. Keaton, a conservative young man often at odds with his more liberal family. The show balanced comedy with heartfelt family moments, and Meirink’s brief role added to the charm of the episode she appeared in.
Although her appearance was small, working on a show as beloved as Family ties Contributed to Meyrink’s growing portfolio of television roles in the 1980s. Acting alongside stars like Michael J. Fox and Meredith Baxter gave Meerinck the opportunity to take part in one of the most iconic series of the era. Her role on Family ties is a testament to her versatility as an actress, contributing to the rich tapestry of ’80s television history.
Family Ties is a sitcom that aired from 1982 to 1989, focusing on the Keaton family, blending comedic elements with social and political commentary. The show stars Michael J. Fox as Alex P. Keaton, a young conservative with liberal ex-hippie parents, played by Meredith Baxter and Michael Gross. Family Ties highlights generational conflicts and the dynamics of a family navigating the cultural shifts of the 1980s.
3
The Outsiders (1983)
Marcia
in The aliensMeirnk played Marcia, a friend of Cheri Vallance (Diane Lane) and one of the “Sox” – the rich, popular group in contrast to the working greasers. Although Marcia is not one of the central figures in the film, Her role is pivotal during the interactions between the rival cliques, especially in scenes where the class divide is most apparent.. The film, based on SE Hinton’s novel, explores the tension between the two groups of teenagers.
The aliens Featuring an all-star cast, including Tom Cruise, Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, and Rob Lowe, among others, many of them have become Hollywood legends. Being part of the ensemble allowed Meyrink to share the screen with future stars, even if her role was smaller in comparison. The aliens became a cultural icon of the 1980s, and Meyrinka’s participation in such an iconic film was a major achievement in her career.
The Outsiders is Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of SE Hinton’s coming-of-age drama novel. Two teen gangs, The Social and The Greasers find themselves at irreconcilable odds when one of The Social’s boys is killed in a brawl. After the event, the Greasers head into hiding while some of them seek redemption for their past crimes.
- Release date
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March 25, 1983
- runtime
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91 minutes
2
Real Genius (1985)
Jordan Cochran
Real genius One of Michelle Meyrink’s most famous and beloved roles remains, as she portrayed Jordan Cochran, a hyperactive genius at a prestigious technical university. Jordan is one of the film’s most memorable characters, thanks to Meyrink’s portrayal of her quirky, socially awkward personality. The film centers on a group of young geniuses who develop a laser technology that is intended to be weaponized by the government. Meirink’s energetic performance as Jordan perfectly complements the film’s offbeat humor and eccentric story.
Meirnk was in good company in Real geniusStarring alongside the likes of Val Kilmer. Kilmer’s comedic performance as Chris Knight was enhanced by Meyrink’s dynamic portrayal of Jordan, and their scenes together became some of the most memorable in the film. Real genius Remaining a firm favorite among ’80s comedies, Meyrink’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt sincerity has ensured her portrayal of Jordan continues to resonate with audiences.
1
Revenge of the Nerds (1984)
Judy
Meyrink’s role as Judy in Revenge of the Nerds is one of her most iconic performances. Judy is the “female nerd” who becomes romantically involved with Gilbert (Anthony Edwards), helping to humanize the nerdy group while adding heart and humor.. The movie follows a group of outcast nerds at Adams College as they stand up to a bullying fraternity of jocks. Meirink’s character brings charm and awkwardness to her role, providing comedic relief in a film filled with moments of underdog triumph.
Revenge of the Nerds became one of the defining comedies of the 1980s, cementing its place as a cult classic. Meyrink had the opportunity to work alongside notable actors such as Edwards, Robert Carradine and Curtis Armstrong, all of whom helped make the film a success. The blend of humor, feel-good moments and unforgettable characters has held Revenge of the Nerds Relevant for decades. Meyrink’s performance remains a continuation, and Judy is fondly remembered as one of the most endearing characters in the film.
Revenge of the Nerds is a comedy about a group of social outcasts who band together to form a fraternity to fight the jocks who bully them. The 1984 film, starring Robert Carradine, Anthony Edwards and Timothy Busfield, spawned a four-film franchise.
- Figure
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Robert Carradine, Anthony Edwards, Timothy Busfield, Andrew Casse, Curtis Armstrong, Larry B. Scott, Brian Tochi, Julia Montgomery
- Director
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Jeff Kane
- Release date
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August 10, 1984
- runtime
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90 minutes