Chevy Chase in Snow Day
Chevy Chase played Tom Brandston, a Syracuse meteorologist, in the movie "Snow Day."
(Screenshot from YouTube)
On a snow day, anything can happen -- or so the movie "Snow Day" claims.
Set in Syracuse, the flick made in 2000 didn't get rave reviews, but it may offer some laughs during this less-than-comical weather.
But while the scenes are identical to Central New York, filming for "Snow Day" actually took place in Canada. IMDB lists Edmonton, a city in Alberta, as the primary location.
The film follows a group of elementary and high school students seeking adventure on the rare day off. The youngsters' leader, Natalie Brandston (Zena Grey), spends the day by doing everything in her power to fend off the crazed snowplow driver (Chris Elliott) from clearing the streets.
Natalie's older brother, Hal (Mark Webber), has other plans and spends his day committing grand acts of love in order to get the attention of his crush Claire Bonner (Emmanuelle Chriqui). Hal's best friend, Lane Leonard (Schuyler Fisk), helps him with his endeavor, but secretly wishes he would fall for her instead.
The Brandstons' dad, Tom (Chevy Chase), is a local TV meteorologist who struggles to beat the viewership of rival meteorologist, Chad Symmonz (John Schneider). Tom is willing to do whatever it takes in order to be on top, and hold on to his career.
In a trailer clip from the movie, a radio personality announces closings for the Syracuse area after a "record snowfall." Community closings included the Carousel Mall, among other fictional businesses. At the end of the list, all local schools were declared closed. Cue cheers and corny post-90s ska music.
One of the more recognizable actors in the winter-weather film includes Josh Peck. Then 13 years old, Peck made his acting debut in "Snow Day." Peck continued to work with Nickelodeon as he became a regular on "The Amanda Show," and later starred in the TV series "Drake and Josh."
Later in the movie, Hal realizes he isn't the only one seeking Claire Bonner's heart. In this clip, Hal and Lane find a crowd of suitors outside Claire's home. A friend of Hal's is found in the mob of males, declaring that "some of these guys came all the way from Rochester." Quite the trek during a day with a travel advisory.
Do you remember watching this movie when it was released 16 years ago? Perhaps you even have the orange-colored VHS on your shelf. Either way, leave a comment below.
This feature is a part of CNY Nostalgia, a section on syracuse.com. Send your ideas and curiosities to Allie Healy: Email | Twitter | 315-766-6725