Review of Say Anything... (1989) by David H — 14 Dec 2009

Like the films title, there is just so much to say about this film. Not only is it entirely realistic, but it is just so well crafted and moving that you like the characters go through numerous emotions.

The films starts with the girl, Diane (Ione Skye), and her father, James (John Mahoney), driving to her high school graduation. At the same time, we meet the boy, Lloyd (John Cusack), also driving to graduation. Diane is beautiful, yet withheld. She is the class valedictorian and has a scholarship to a top school in England. Lloyd is normal, he isn't handsome, he isn't a jock, he's not a comedian, but he's charming. Although they go to the same school they have never really met, but Cusack is enamored by her and decides to call her and ask her out. She is hesitant at first, but she is persuaded into going out with him. From then on it is pure love.

The film also has another storyline involving Diane's father and his business ethics and like the love story it is extremely effective. However, this film is an amazing take on young love and how innocent yet educational it is. The two may be wary about their future together, but they still learn so much from each other. Cusack plays the normal guy with a great quirkiness and real lovable characteristic. It is one of those performances that is so easily relate able to that at the 20 minute mark you forget that you're watching a movie. Skye is also great as girl who most would consider unobtainable, but inside she wants to be as normal as every other teen. Their chemistry is amazing and all I can really say is this is what love is.

When I think of the ideal relationship I always think of this film. It is romantic, heartbreaking, charming, and beautiful. Cusack and Skye portray young love in a way that very few films have been able to capture. It is perfect, absolutely perfect in every way.

And I must say the boom box scene is one of the greatest in film history, it truly sums up this amazing film.