Clueless

Amy Heckerling, USA 1995, 97 minutes

Loosely based on the currently fashionable Jane Austen's "Emma", Amy Heckerling's latest film returns to similar settings as her earlier Fast Times At Ridgemont High for a delightful satire on American Rich-Kid society.

Starring Alicia Silverstone as Cher, the "heroine" of the film, Clueless follows her attempts to spread love, peace, happiness and fashion tips amonst her community. Unfortunately, though she might have a computer co-ordinated motorised wardrobe to die for, she soon realises that she's totally clueless when it comes to her own life.

Imagining that she can make the whole world happier by organising a global bout of matchmaking, Cher neglects the attentions of her serious half-brother for the cutest Baldwins in town - with hilarious consequences.

Interspersed with amusing monologues about American society, the war in Vietnam and whether lamé is in or out, the film also carries a drop-dead soundtrack and one of those typical school-dance-occasions-with-a-twist.

This film is so warm and cuddly that you can't help but feel all glowing inside after watching it. Full of wonderfully observed touches such as the plasters covering nose-jobs, the hilarious voiceover commentary and the language that is Cher-speak, this is not just another dumb teen movie. Instead, thanks to its cast (including hot Betty of the month, Alicia Silverstone) this transcends these to a higher plane of enlightenment... or something. Whatever.

Come watch and find out what I've been babbling incoherently about.

"Fresh, disarmingly bright ... explosively funny" - Variety

Review by Neil Chue Hong
Taken from EUFS Programme 1996-97