Film As personal as trains and drumbeats
To me, this is everything. About life, about love... Everything. I realize that it's probably not at all the sort of movie most people like, but that's all right. I couldn't agree less with Ebert - it's perfect, not because it explores some highminded questions but because it has some of the best, most interesting, most *real* characters in media; and for me, characters move much more 'fast' - more fluidly - than anything else. Whenever I'm unsure about myself and who I am, I can find my way back here. Does that mean it's for everyone? No. But please don't go conflating this with Pretty in Pink - the two are completely different movies about completely different people, and this one hasn't even been seen by most folks. If you're looking for something to watch, give it a try- regardless of what movies you like, give it a try.
I tried to find more to say, but realized there was nothing left.
Film One of the best of the 80s teen films
The thing I liked most about this film, along with Say Anything, is that they both talked about things that are almost certainly to happen to most teenagers: how one deals with expectations and when your reality doesn't meet what you presume it should.
A lot of other 80s films are enjoyable and do talk at a teen level (rather than preach to them), but the scenarios are more either Wish Fulfillment, or fantasy.
S Ko W is neither - it handles an all-too-common scenario for teens: understanding the difference between reality and fantasy, and avoids the cliches for the main characters. There's still some general troping going on, but it is in service to the main character's being presented as fully developed people, not just a 2D single personality.
Say Anything is about finding happiness in places you didn't think possible because of YOUR preconceptions. S Ko W is about happiness through learning what you really want, not what you THINK you want because of society. They're related issues, which is why I think watching them in a pair is a great idea.
I liked Pretty in Pink less, because it played a lot of stuff pretty straight, without the introspection and self awareness that both SA and S Ko W have. And don't get me started on how Sixteen Candles REALLY hasn't aged well.
In short, I have to say this isn't a flashy movie, it's not one where you get lots of laughs, and you don't cry through it, either. But it's a fabulous heartfelt film, and one that sticks with you a long time.