FOOTLOOSE (1984) ** There are a couple ways of considering this film, each requiring more time than it's worth: the popular conception is of a spirited minor film challenging death religion with the spirit of rock 'n' roll. This view is flawed, as there is no music evident (except Haydn) worth challenging anything with. The "cool" view is of a film that was part of the problem, the dumbing down, the dilution of rock 'n' roll itself with this schmaltzy crap. There's something to be said for that, but anyone willing to settle for this schlock was never going to find their way to Hawkwind anyway. I have to admit they lost me entirely when the guy with Pink Floyd and Grateful Dead stickers on his truck turns out to be an ultra-violent cultural ignoramus. So either its heart was in the right place but it lacked brain to an alarming degree, or its brain was evil and calculating, but without much to it anyway. I mean, if you're willing to accept Kevin Bacon as a heroic figure it's probably not going to make all that much difference what team you're on. He can dance though (as can Lori Singer), and his affectations at cool aren't without a very real element of unintentional humor. It's entertaining enough despite itself I guess, the conversion of John Lithgow to life, with the assistance of Diane Wiest (is always great), is ok. I don't offer warnings about films much, but this is one: this movie is full of all kind of crappy pop songs that will get stuck in your head, no matter how much you don't want 'em in there.
back to Brilliant Observations on 2120 Films page, or Index
go back home, or send me email
Reviews won't do it any more! I need sustained brilliance! I want to buy your exciting new terrorist novel!
I've already read both of your novels. Thank you, they're amazing. Now I want to check out your weekly blog on everything