Review of Say Anything... (1989) by Jessie C — 22 Aug 2010

I bought this movie after hearing many times about its famous boom box scene, and I do not regret it at all. It?s a lovely film with a simple plot and sincere characters. It?s one of the classic ?80s films that should never be forgotten.

I believe the best thing about this movie is the lead character, Lloyd Dobbler. I love him; he is the sweetest movie character that comes to my mind right now. He was so well-established?John Cusack did a really spectacular job portraying him. If Lloyd were real I would love to date him. I know for sure I would not like this movie without him.

His lover in the film, however, was not so impressive. I didn?t really like her too much, but it seems like her interactions with other characters in the story and the descriptions of those who knew her were meant to show her as a like-able presence. To me, this is a failure. I thought she was boring, confusing at times, and annoying. I just didn?t like her. I believe she is the only problem with the film, and I think she is what?s keeping me from making the jump from liking this movie to loving it. Too bad.

Another aspect of this film that I really liked were the extra characters, like Lloyd?s friends and fellow high school graduates at the house party. They were really funny to me, and much more interesting to watch than Diane Court. His friend?s obsession with Joe was really fun, haha. I loved it.

The plot is simple- it?s mainly the blossoming love between two teenagers and seeing if it will survive through the devastating drama of finding out a beloved father could be criminal. It?s cute, easy to follow. The music is great, peppy ?80s. I liked the dialogue, mainly just Lloyd?s though. Everything he said felt so genuine and sweet. I loved every time he talked.

So pretty much, I really like this movie a lot. Very rarely do I see a film where I wish I could date someone in it, but this is definitely one. It?s a really sweet movie, a date movie perhaps. Enjoy : ).