2. Clueless, directed by
Amy Heckerling

Knowing You’re Hot Shit, But Not Knowing You’re Clueless

 

Jane Austen still knows what’s up, with yet another contemporary re-interpretation of one of her novels, this time Emma. Haven’t read the literary classic? Well, here is a lightweight summary: spoilt, considerably smug lady gets bored and fancies herself as a matchmaker. Absorbed with social class and acceptance – as most people were during the 19th Century – she fails to see beyond her narrow views. Transplanted into 20th century California, Clueless closely follows the plot and themes of the original, but manages to make it uniquely its own. A satire on the elite rich kids of Beverly Hills, we can both laugh and acknowledge the aspects of truth behind it.

Watching the movie again after many years, Cher and the gang still bring the goods. The movie is practically built on irony, particularly whenever Cher (Alicia Silverstone) opens her mouth. Her actions contradict her words, and her blinding ignorance is at odds with her arrogance. In the first few minutes of our meeting Cher, she introduces her best friend Dion: “She’s my best friend because we both know what it’s like to have people jealous of us.” Yet, in spite of her snobbery, privilege and materialistic values, she is hugely likable, mainly due to her humour, naivety and well-meaning intentions. Alicia Silverstone too, with her high-pitched, flickering voice and comedic timing, is so engaging and cutesy (complete with fluffy Britney Spears-style pen) that it’s impossible to hate her.

Spurred on by her belief that everybody needs their perfect counterpoint, Cher begins meddling with other people’s lives, with her first big project taking the form of new girl, Tai (played by Brittany Murphy). Attempting to both match-make and make-over, Cher proves to be not very good at either: she misreads signs, colours Tai with misinformed opinions and flounders in her own romantic navigations. But good intentions, right? And sometimes, making mistakes is the only way to learn.

As funny and relevant as it was when it was released in 1995, Clueless is sure to be a hit with any audience, whether they are Austen fans or Austen cluelesses.