By Emma Di Salvo
Ah, the 90s. A time of high-waisted mini-skirts, plastic chokers, girl power and some of the most memorable rom-coms ever. The cheesy dialogue, the unrealistic portrayal of relationships, the all-important leading lady and handsome jock.
These movies stand the test of time because they don’t take themselves too seriously. They are meant to be silly. Movies now have longer and longer run-times and are more complex than ever (I’m looking at YOU, Inception). I think it’s time we remind ourselves of a simpler era, so join me for a walk down memory lane as we look back at 5 must-watch romcoms from the 1990s.
She’s All That (1999)
She’s All That is your typical high school Prom King prom Queen story. Zack, dumped by his gorgeous, popular girlfriend in his arrogance, proclaims he can make any plain Jane into the most popular girl in school and even make her Prom Queen.
Enter Laney Boggs. And, of course, as with many teen romcoms, Zack starts to fall for her and questions his life choices and attitude towards women.
When I think of “She’s All That,” I instantly picture the main character, sweet Laney Boggs, walking down the stairs to a very young and cute Freddy Prince Jr (Zack) to the song “Kiss Me,” by Sixpence None the Richer. It is these sorts of scenes that stay with us forever, and we can’t help but look back on them and smile.
Never Been Kissed (1999)
There was a time in my life when I would randomly say, “You know what’s a weird word – fork,” and “I’m not Josie Grosey anymore.” I absolutely adored this movie growing up. Josie Geller (Drew Barrymore) goes undercover as a high school student to further her career as a reporter. The trouble is, her high school experience the first time around was a complete disaster, and it looks like she awaits the same fate the second time.
Josie is nerdy, awkward, and has questionable fashion taste. She has never been kissed and never been in love. But all that changes when she meets the rather gorgeous (and not at all stupid for mistaking a 30-something-year-old for a high school student) English teacher, Sam Coulson.
Never Been Kissed is funny and sweet, and Drew Barrymore’s comedic timing is just perfect.
The Truth About Cats and Dogs (1996)
You may not know this movie, but it was one of my favourites growing up. Animal lover and veterinarian Abby Barnes hosts a radio show aptly named “The Truth about Cats and Dogs.” Brian, an eager listener, tries to meet Abby by coming to the studio but ends up meeting her friend, Noelle (played by Uma Thurman), instead.
Rather than tell the truth and tell Brian that he’s got the two confused, self-conscious, Abby asks her gorgeous blonde friend Noelle to pretend to be her. He later meets Abby, who calls herself Donna, and he doesn’t suspect a thing! How Brian never connects the dots is hilariously silly and great fun. He even has phone sex with the real Abby and still doesn’t figure it out. Oh, Brian.
Only You (1994)
My mum introduced me to this movie (thanks, Mum), and it holds a very special place in my heart because of that. It also happens to be a fantastic movie!
Only You is all about destiny and love. When Faith was a child, she played with an Ouija Board that told her that her soulmate is out there waiting for her, and he is called Damon Bradley. Very specific, I know! When she’s a little older, a psychic tells her the exact same thing.
Now Faith is an adult and off on an adventure to find Damon Bradley in hopes of finally finding her soulmate. The movie stars Marisa Tomei, Robert Downy Jr and Bonnie Hunt. It’s a must-see for any hopeless romantic.
Clueless (1995)
You didn’t think I’d end the list without mentioning Clueless, did you?! Clueless optimises 90’s romcoms. It’s the classic set-up: a high school, the popular kids, the outcast, a make-over and 90’s fashion! Clueless has it all.
What I love about this movie is not only does it still have the ability to make me laugh all these years later, but I just LOVE the main character, Cher. She tries to be a better person and believably evolves throughout the movie. She is not a mean girl. She’s sweet, loves her Father and wants the best for her friends.
Alicia Silverstone is iconic in this role, and this movie will stand the test of time and live on in our hearts forever (urgh, as if!)
There are so many classic rom-coms from the 1990’s it was a challenge picking just 5. These movies are comforting, cosy and perfect to watch alone or with friends/family. I don’t know what it was about this era that made the movies so memorable. Still, I am indeed very grateful for each of them.