In a high school in an American suburb, a shy and marginalized boy named Mark Hunter decides to use the radio as his tool for expression. Adopting the pseudonym "Hard Harry," he becomes a pirate radio host, broadcasting from his bedroom and sparking a revolution at his school. His late-night shows, filled with alternative music and provocative commentary, attract students and soon become a refuge for young people feeling lost in an oppressive educational system.
As his broadcasts grow bolder and more candid, Mark shares his thoughts on social pressure, youth culture, and dissatisfaction with the adult world, resonating with his peers and challenging conformity. However, the popularity of his program does not go unnoticed, and soon authorities are compelled to act to stop this subversive broadcaster. Tension rises as students begin to unite, inspired by Harry's words, facing their own fears and questioning established norms.
As the situation escalates, Mark also deals with his personal life, including his budding romance with a classmate, played by a young and talented Christian Slater. As the lines between reality and fantasy blur, the film explores themes of identity, freedom of expression, and the struggles youth face in a world that often ignores them. A classic from the '90s that endures in its relevance and message.