Saturday, March 19, 2016

Life Moves Pretty Fast: The Lessons We Learned from Eighties Movies (And Why We Don't Learn Them From Movies Any More) by Hadley Freeman

A special thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I miss the 80s, like I really miss the 80s (well, except for the unfortunate fashion choices that have actually become endearing).  How can you not miss the music, the hair, and of course, the movies?  Was there anything better than packing up your Kaboodle full of Kissing Potion, scrunchies, and jelly bracelets to go to a sleepover at your bestie's house where you would binge on John Hughes movies?

Freeman's book really hits the mark for movie buffs and 80s aficionados alike.  I couldn't help but quote movie lines in my head, and add to her lists.  She clearly has done her research and time as a journalist, her writing is quite good.  But...what I wasn't prepared for was the topic of feminism as it was not advertised anywhere in the marketing/synopsis of the book.  I don't necessarily feel that this is a bad thing.  She can be incredibly witty, insightful, and thought provoking.  There were some solid points about the lack of movies for women/lack of women directors, but I felt she went a little overboard and in this case, less would've been more because her writing is so articulate.  I also disagree with her thoughts on Weird Science, I love this movie!

I feel like I could write this type of book.  I mean who doesn't want to talk about being kissed by Jake Ryan, or Blaine?  I mean, seriously!  And how good does an 80s movie make you feel?  This book made me dig out my VHS tapes and get reacquainted with some old friends.  Thank you Hadley for this gem, I would definitely recommend this read.

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