About Last Night

EW had a list in the last issue of 'The 50 Greatest High School Movies,' which included greats like 'The Breakfast Club' (#1 on the list) and 'Heathers' (dark and genius), among others. The majority of the films listed were 80's films, and it got me to thinking. I've always said that the Golden Era of filmmaking was during the 1980's. Really, I'd start at 1977 (smiles) and go through 1992. From there, it all goes downhill somewhat. I say 'somewhat,' because there have been some true classics during the years of 1993-present, but it's just not the same anymore.

There was a time when I could watch any movie that came out, whether it be comedy, drama, action, or whatever, and I enjoyed it. I don't know if it's because I grew up, or became a more discerning film-watcher, or what, but I miss the 80's sense of entertainment. Everything entertained me in the 80's: Films, TV, Music. Somewhere along the way, it all became formulaic and predictable. Or maybe I've just seen too much and listened to too much.

I was insanely in love with Rob Lowe in the 80's (my bedroom walls were plastered) and Demi Moore was my favorite actress (pre-the Sig years). So I love both of the films they did together, 'St. Elmo's Fire' and 'About Last Night.'

'About Last Night' is the 80's defined. The only things it lacks that were 80's staples were cocaine use and neon colors. haha Based on David Mamet's play 'Sexual Perversity in Chicago,' this film tells the story of Dan (Rob Lowe), the typical bachelor, who wants to sleep with as many women as possible, and never be serious about any of them, and Debbie (Demi Moore), your average career woman who wants the husband and the 2.5 kids.

If this were released today, it might get an NC-17 rating. There's no frontal nudity of the private areas, but there's plenty of everything else, including some very, very close calls for Mr. Lowe (damn!). In between the sex, which was actually tasteful and not Basic Instinct-esque, Debbie falls for Dan, and they try to make this work as an actual relationship. But, Dan being immature, and both of them having rushed into it, problems ensue.

The supporting characters are great: Elizabeth Perkins as Debbie's cynical, intellectual roommate, Jim Belushi as Dan's playboy, crude best friend, and an appearance by Megan Mullally (Karen! From Will and Grace!) in which she looks nothing like herself. This was 20 years ago and I'd have never known it was Megan if I hadn't read it in the credits. She had blonde/brown 80's hair, for God's Sake!

I was reminded, as I watched this film, that Demi Moore has the most gorgeous dark hazel eyes in the world. And Rob Lowe has the most gorgeous light hazel eyes in the world. I used to always say I had to marry somebody with hazel eyes. Just because it's my favorite color in eyes. Although my neice has clear blue eyes that defy logic. So both can be awesome. But anyway, it's hard to imagine two people being so beautiful, but they were, even with 80's hair.

If you like 80's nostalgia and a great little movie about relationships, check it out.

Grade: A+
It's one of my all-time faves.
Despite cheesy no-names singing the songs on the soundtrack. ;)

In other news, I saw where Madonna wants to be blasted into space. Too-many-jokes-can-be-made-of-this! Madonna. Give it up, girlfriend. You're killing me.

Have a great day!