How ‘Vision Quest’ changed Todd Herman’s life; giving a lesson we all should learn

The ’80s cult classic movie “Vision Quest” has always spoken to KTTH’s Todd Herman, but, until recently, he never really understood why. Now, years after watching the film, he realizes the life lesson that everyone should learn.

The movie that was filmed in Herman’s hometown of Spokane is a coming-of-age drama about an 18-year-old high school wrestler named Louden Swain, played by Matthew Modine, who feels he hasn’t done anything in his life and sets out on a quest &#8212 dropping weight to battle the menacing, undefeated wrestler from a rival school.

Related: A classic, but terrible way to teach children a lesson

Modine, recently celebrated the movie’s 30th Anniversary in Spokane. The celebration gave Herman &#8212 a former high school wrestler who knew people in the film &#8212 an excuse to delve further into its impact.

“I watch this movie and I still get chills,” he said. “Yeah, I was a wrestler, so maybe it means something (to me) that way. I’ve faced the guy nobody wanted to face, but I’m 48, none of that matters. And I finally figured it out: It’s the purity of purpose. It’s the vision of doing something larger than yourself.”

Herman believes the movie highlights the idea of working towards a “clarity of outcome.” Part of adulthood, Herman says, is trying to reach past the everyday goals and find a more long-term clarity.

“The raise, is that the clarity of purpose? Starting a new company, is that the clarity of purpose? If the clarity of purpose are those things, they’re not big enough for me,” Herman said. “My clarity of purpose has become being a dad. It’s become making sure I’m the best possible dad for my daughter, the best possible husband.”

In case you can’t remember the 1985 classic, or are now inspired to watch it, check out the trailer.