The film follows two college roommates, Josh (played by Tom Everett Scott) and Cooper (played by Mark-Paul Gosselaar), who are struggling with their grades and facing the risk of failing out of school. Desperate to avoid the consequences of flunking out, they discover an urban legend that states if their roommate dies, they will automatically receive passing grades for the semester.
Motivated by this morbid loophole, Josh and Cooper set out to find a roommate who is likely to die, hoping to exploit the legend to their advantage. They eventually settle on a depressed and emotionally troubled student named Cliff (played by Lochlyn Munro) as their new roommate, believing that his fragile state of mind makes him a prime candidate for an untimely demise.
As they befriend Cliff and attempt to manipulate him into risky behavior, Josh and Cooper find themselves drawn into increasingly absurd and dangerous situations. Their efforts to orchestrate Cliff’s demise become increasingly desperate and farcical, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.
However, their plans take an unexpected turn when Cliff’s behavior becomes erratic and unpredictable, putting both himself and his roommates in danger. Josh and Cooper must confront the consequences of their actions and grapple with the moral implications of their scheme.
In a climactic sequence, Cliff’s mental state deteriorates further, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that results in his accidental death. Josh and Cooper are horrified by the tragic turn of events and realize the gravity of their actions.
In the aftermath of Cliff’s death, Josh and Cooper face scrutiny from their peers and the authorities, who suspect foul play. They must navigate a web of deception and cover-ups in order to protect themselves and avoid being held accountable for Cliff’s demise.
“Dead Man on Campus” is praised for its dark humor, irreverent tone, and memorable performances from its cast. Tom Everett Scott and Mark-Paul Gosselaar deliver comedic chemistry as the hapless roommates, while Lochlyn Munro shines in his portrayal of the troubled and unpredictable Cliff. With its satirical take on college life and academic pressure, the film remains a cult favorite among fans of dark comedy.