Review of Chasing Amy (1997) by Amjad A — 03 Sep 2013

Definitely different from the average comedy movie; full of unexpected twists. From beginning to end I couldn't decide whether to argue with the screen or nod in approval. Seeing Alyssa tell off Holden for confessing his love and audaciously suggesting that she can just turn off her sexuality like a switch was extremely satisfying. But then I found out that she really CAN turn her sexuality on and off like a switch when she dramatically runs back into his arms and makes out with him (in the rain, of course). At that point in the movie, I was seriously considering turning it off and walking away. However, further on they explain that her sexuality is more label-less/ambiguous and that there are people who are mostly one sexuality but attracted to one person of the sex that they aren't attracted to (like Lindsay Lohan). They should have put more emphasis on the fact that she is reconsidering her sexuality and that maybe she is bisexual. This should have been a big moment for her character but they make it more about Holden than her. I can forgive this movie for a lot of this because it was made in 1997, where anything showing LGBT characters in a positive light is seen as rather groundbreaking. I also was astounded with Alyssa's patience with people when talking about her sexuality when Holden and Banky say some very ignorant things about homosexuality. Again, I have to remember that this movie was made in the 90s.

I liked the point that Smith made (with the movie and as Silent Bob) about slut-shaming and about the anger men feel when they find out their girlfriend has been with a lot of other guys. He dealt with this theme in Clerks as well. It boils down to fear of being inadequate and placing the blame on "sluts" instead of your own insecurity. Another satisfying moment was when Holden concluded that Banky was gay for him due to his bitter jealousy and homophobia. The fact that Banky never denies it and even consents to a possible threesome with Holden and Alyssa is very funny. A great conclusion to make about Banky.

I found Joey Lauren Adams' angry, emotional scenes great in terms of the points she was making and her anger at Holden's ignorance but the acting itself almost made me cringe. After the first few minutes of her screaming, it just seemed repetitious and unnecessary to keep using the raspy, choked up voice even at points where her emotion is more sad, loving or disappointed.

I think this movie needed a bit more Jay and Silent Bob as much needed comic relief as there weren't that many jokes outside the opening scenes. Chasing Amy seemed more like a drama or dramedy than a romantic comedy.

This film deals with really interesting emotions and situations and I mostly really enjoyed it.