Last night my beau took me out on a surprise date. He wouldn't tell me much - we had to be there on time, I had to eat beforehand, we'd definitely be back by 10.30 for the babysitter - so I deduced we were watching a film. Even when we bought the tickets, I didn't know what was coming. It was only when the film's programmer came to the front dressed in a Hawaiian shirt and Elvis sunnies that I guessed correctly - True Romance.
We watched this film, the story of Clarence and Alabama, endlessly when we were teenagers and we knew every word. I think we were a little obsessed, even to the point of dressing like the characters - me in my ponyskin mini-skirt, carrying a little blue patent suitcase, him in a blue hoodie, shirt and those specs. Some of the dialogue has been incorporated into our own, a fact I'd forgotten until watching the film again last night.
It's at least ten years since we last saw it, and so I watched this time with fresh eyes. I was struck by how violent it is, by Patricia Arquette's beauty, how strong and idiosyncratic is Tarantino's voice, what an incredible cast feature (Dennis Hopper is exceptionally good, Christopher Walken never more terrifying, Gary Oldman grotesquely genius), and how I never did have a son called Elvis.
In one short evening I journeyed back in time, recalling days of freedom and youth, love and romance, fun and inappropriate clothing. (I think I might have to buy myself a leopard-print coat.) I enjoyed it so much, and the fact it was a total surprise just added to the romance.
Thank you BV. You're so cool <3
A leopard print coat would really suit you! I loved this film too especially the soundtrack, I may have to watch it again, Emma x
ReplyDeletep.s. did she wear a turquoise bra?
My favourite movie! I always wanted to be Alabama Whirrly (not the hooker part) but the trashy blonde with her bra strap showing and her beestung lips. So Debbie Harry. Ben that was a date and a half, gold star! (and get that bloody coat already!) :) xx
ReplyDeleteAhhhh, my favourite film!
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome date. Good work mister x
Favourite film ever. I'm still searching for the perfect leopardskin fur coat. And yes it is incredibly violent - but I love that Alabama kicks James Gandolfini's arse - she's a beauty but no victim. They're so cool. x
ReplyDeleteAh yes, this is one of my faves and a great reminder that I need to buy a second-hand VCR player and dig out my rather big box of video tapes or buy it on DVD perhaps?
ReplyDelete