Clueless

Had someone told me my favorite nineties movie was based on the Jane Austen novel Emma, I wouldn’t believe it. How can a humorous novel about regency society translate to a high school comedy? Then I rewatched Clueless, and realized just how many similarities there were. Cher helps the bashful new girl find a guy after successfully setting up her teachers. The guy she sets up her friend with is actually interested in Cher, and makes the moves on her while they're driving home. Her friend is heartbroken, then becomes interested in Cher’s ex-stepbrother. Cher realizes that she herself is in love with him. Her friend gets with the guy she was initially interested in. Everyone lives happily ever after. That is basically the plot of Emma. There are minor subplots that parallel as well. A guy lightly flirts with Cher/ Emma to hide the fact that he has a secret fiance/ is gay. Cher/ Emma doesn’t want to go to a party held by people of a lower class, but does because the rest of her social group attends. Her friend becomes suddenly popular after being held up by bandits/ being hung over a balcony.  The attitude of the story is kept, as well. Emma was portrayed as naive and well meaning, but self absorbed. Nothing she does is intended to be mean, and she learns from her mistakes and grows. That is one of the most important parts of the story. Every action is done with the best intent. Overall, the movie is funny without being mean. Both my parents and I find it funny. That’s rare. It’s a sweet movie, and it is timeless. Almost twenty years later, this movie is still relevant, funny, and meaningful, even if some of the fashion is questionable. I really love this movie. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to watch a cute comedy that has a gay character but doesn’t turn him into a punch line, black people without the stereotype, and the rich blonde girl that may be spoiled, but is very kind hearted. Cher is goals, honestly. The way she talks is so charming, and her care for her father is so positive. I love their relationship. He’s abrasive, but still deeply cares about Cher and even his ex-stepson. Clueless is just so amazing. Please watch this movie.