I love movies. When Alex put together this blogfest, I simply had to participate…I’m a movie junkie. To see a list of all the participants, click on the badge and that will take you to Alex’s site and the names of the others. Visit. Comment. Have fun.
When I first looked into movies that fit my chosen category, I was doubtful that there would be many from which to choose. My definition of a chick flick is the sappy, made-for-Lifetime TV movie that has me rolling my eyes at the absurd plot, cheesy dialogue, back-biting bitchiness, and general teeny-bopper mentality, such as Fab Five: The Texas Cheerleading Scandal, or Mother, May I Sleep With Danger? A good indicator of these movies would be your typical Tori Spelling movie, or movies that star anybody else from the cast of the original “90210.”
However, in my research I found that I’m a big ol’ chick flick fan! I had no idea. And what I learned was that chick flicks, at least the good ones, are basically ensemble movies that offer detailed character studies of the protagonist, antagonist, and supporting roles, who, in their own way, eventually find that the “perfect world” in which they live isn’t so perfect after all. An evolution takes place, and tears are usually shed.
Perhaps that’s why men refuse to watch them; “There’s no crying in baseball!” (A League of Their Own)
Men…get over it and check your machismo at the door. You may actually experience some personal growth yourself.
Yes, I like action, manly-men movies, such as your Die Hards, Schwartzenegger flicks (but not necessarily Stallone), Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve, and Thirteen, as well as your basic Hitchcock mysteries, thrillers, and special effects bonanzas. But I’ll have to admit that chick flicks are my guilty pleasure.
So without further ado, I’d like to present a list of ten movies considered to be chick flicks, in no specific ranking or order (or even necessarily my ten favorites), that had an influence on me.
Love Story (1970) taught us that “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” A chick flick with a tagline that works its way into the mainstream vernacular is a safe bet that it’s a movie that men will enjoy, and by taking your girlfriend or wife to see it will ensure reaching at least second base (and that’s what stomaching this is really all about, isn’t it?).
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002) has an all-star cast that can do no wrong. I was in a particularly vulnerable mood once and watched a 4:00 a.m. showing in the solitude of my own home, thank God, for by the end, I was a sniveling mess. Very snot-worthy. One of my favorite lines is, “The only disease that could survive in our bloodstream is alcoholism,” dead-panned by the incomparable Maggie Smith. James Garner adds some validity for men to watch, and he’s been a favorite actor of mine since the days of Rockford.
Titanic (1997). Okay, I’m not a big Leonardo fan. He gets on my nerves. But I chose this movie for the fact that it’s a Best Picture Oscar winner, and albeit fictionalized, an historical interpretation of what could have happened. The story was excellent, and if I can sit in a crowded movie theater for three hours of water splashing without once getting up to pee, then I must have really liked it.
American Dreamer (1984) is probably the least-known on the list, but a priceless movie that everybody should rent on a Saturday night. JoBeth Williams, a mainstay character-actress of the 80’s (Poltergeist), stars as a bored amnesiac housewife who thinks she’s the spy of her favorite novels, and ironically gets wrapped-up in espionage. Tom Conti plays the male lead, and the result is pure hilarity. I learned the quote of Nietzsche, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger,” from this movie.
Steel Magnolias (1989). With Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, and Daryl Hannah creating the ensemble cast of strong women, plus a plethora of one-liners that should belong in Bartlett’s, this is a win-win movie for both guys and girls. If you’re not bawling during the funeral scene where Sally has a melt-down, well, you’re most likely a sociopath. Seriously.
The Big Chill (1983). Another star-studded cast (are you beginning to see a pattern to these movies?), a great soundtrack, and probably the best “reunion” movie ever made, including the frat crowd’s American Pie series. This one is fun for the grown-ups. A little trivia for you: the friend who committed the suicide that brings everyone together was Kevin Costner. The director had to cut his scenes, except for the shot of his sutured wrists, but was so impressed with Costner that he suggested him for the starring role in Phil Alan Robinson’s Field of Dreams.
Sleepless in Seattle (1993). Directed by Nora Ephron and starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Enough said.
Postcards from the Edge (1990) is the unofficial biography of Carrie Fisher, daughter of film legend Debbie Reynolds. Can Meryl make a bad movie? I think not. Shirley MacLaine is priceless as an aging movie star still seeking the spotlight, and usually steals it away from her drug-addicted daughter, who is doing her best to clean-up her act and failing career. A wonderful look at the wacky world of Hollywood and addiction. And I absolutely love the scene below:
Fried Green Tomatoes (1991). Fanny Flagg was one of my favorite comediennes and writers of the 70’s, and could always fill in the blanks perfectly on Match Game, often leaving Gene Rayburn speechless. With Kathy Bates as a whimpering housewife who can’t even look at her own vagina, Jessica Tandy tells her the story of two women in the 20’s who overcame their own weaknesses in the strengths of the other. Great storyline, too.
And last, but certainly not least:
Mommie Dearest (1981). Faye Dunaway is remarkable, both in appearance and attitude, as screen legend Joan Crawford in this tell-all book and movie which has become the standard of scathing memoirs. It is a classic, showing Christina Crawford’s personal memories of her adoptive mother in a most unflattering light. And with lines like, “No more wire hangers!” and “Christina, bring me the ax!” how can you lose? My favorite zinger, and there were plenty, has to be the one where Joan tells the board of Pepsico that this isn’t her first time at the rodeo. Of course she says it in true Crawford style.
And there you have it. Ten movies to cozy up to, wrap your arms around your gal, and score great Sensitive Man points. Why don’t you suggest one tonight?
Peace,
ML Swift
M.L. Swift, Writer 
I’ve seen most of those. Not so much into chick flicks, but I do like romantic comedies. Probably even more than my wife does!
Thanks for participating in my blogfest!
Alex, I hate to break it to you, but “Romantic Comedies” is essentially manspeak for chick flicks. Thanks for a great blog topic!
Nope… I am out of here, first you say them, then you will make me watch them!
It’s a form of female torture…quite passive-aggressive! Thanks for stopping.
Wow! That’s some list!
“…if I can sit in a crowded movie theater for three hours of water splashing without once getting up to pee, then I must have really liked it.”
ROFL xD
This is why I love visiting your blog.
And I love your’n, too, Melissa! I’ll be making my rounds…been sleeping all day, trying to overcome this blasted whatever-it-is. I almost went to the hospital. I think it’s developed into pneumonia.
Oh good choices. I’m not a huge movie buff– I just don’t seem to have the patience to sit through most movies, but these are good ones! Nice post– have missed you!
I knew you weren’t a cinephile, but many of these have also been books. “Love Story” was the first “adult” book I read (at five years old) and I remember how excited I was to watch the movie. The opening line, “What can you say about a 25 year old girl who died? That she loved Beethoven, Bach, the Beatles…and me.” The Jerry MacGuire line, “You complete me” pales in comparison.
Physically, I think I’m much sicker than I first thought (put that on my tombstone). I’ve slept all day and may hit the hospital if not better tomorrow.
Yeesh Mike– please take care of yourself.
Will do. Thanks.
These are some of my favorite films as well.
Karen
Karen! Gotta stop by your place! It’s been too long…I’ll be over later. These are some goodies.
I love your take on the top ten list! I agree with all of these as great chick-flick films…except Titanic. Man, this movie just gets my eyes rolling so fast I look like I’m seizing. But Fried Green Tomatoes and The Big Chill make up for it for me!
I almost didn’t include Titanic. Seriously. The once was enough, but I’ve even had to weather through it a couple of more times. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Thanks for stopping.
I’m resisting the urge to call for your man card to be revoked, but I will say that I do have a soft spot for “Fried Green Tomatoes,” simply for the double-trouble hotness that is both Mary Stuart Masterson and Mary-Louise Parker.
And the subtle hints of lesbianism.
Subtle my ass.
ROFL. The secret’s in the sauce.
Haha, I’ve seen some of these but the others…..well, I’ll take your word for it. Great list, though 🙂
Chicken! Embrace the girly-man inside!
Sensitive man points, brilliant! I haven’t seen any of these, except the Field of Dreams but that’s one of my favorites.
Hey Al! You should check into some of these…you’ll love them.
I’m not big on chick flicks, but this reminded me of a movie I really liked with Ryan O’Neal and Barbra Streisand called, What’s Up, Doc? It was such a fun movie.
I remember that one, and almost included “Funny Girl.” Babs movies are usually pretty good. Ryan made some real bad ones afterward…I remember one about designer jeans with no back pockets…ugh. How’s Paris in the springtime?
Howdy, hopping by from the Hop. First, great post title. Second: OHMIGOSH, AMERICAN DREAMER!!!!!!!!!! I think you and I are the only chicks in the world who remember this!!!!! (OK, I’m exaggerating, but still…) LOVED IT and it nearly made it to my own list. It’s definitely in my top 20, at least! I remember thinking how goofily glamorous JoBeth Williams was, and how adorably befuddled, yet protective, Conti was…and what a drip the husband was! 🙂
Sorry! Belatedly realized you’re a dude and not a chick. You are, aren’t you? A dude, that is? Of course, we’re all dudes, but…oh, never mind. 😀
I’m Sensitive Man…a retired superhero that actually listens to women when they talk. Thanks for stopping, and I’ll be by sometime tonight.
I HAD to include that one, and after doing so, realize that I must put that on my rental list again. It was fantastic!
These are great! Love Story … so sad. 🙂
Can’t wait to see yours, David! I’ve slept the day away, but must have needed it. Love Story was wonderful, but Oliver’s Story…should have left well enough alone.
I love A League of their Own! Can’t believe I didn’t put that on my list.
Nutschell
http://www.thewritingnut.com
I should replace Titanic with that one (but I sneaked a reference in, instead). Thanks for visiting, Nutschell!
[Disclaimer — this post is from Mark with a “Kym” and not Kym with a “Y”]
Mike, oh Mike.
Gotta chime in on this list. Kym-n-Mark were very tempted to jump on this blog hop because because both are shameless movie buffs, but gotta draw the line somewhere for self-indulgence. (Not a value judgment on this blog hop, BTW, just a decision driven by time management.)
However, I (Mark speaking now) have to respond to your slant on the list.
Okay, I admit that I flunked Sensitive Man 101 even though I think I’m probably more in touch with my fem side than lots of guys. Heck, my best solo-work characters tend to be women. And I even loved Sara Gruen’s book and derivative movie versions of “Water for Elephants” even though that franchise spills over into chick-lit/flick territory big time.
But even though I’ve seen almost all of the movies on your list (which surprises me a bit), I can’t say I enjoyed many of them — despite their cuddle-factor appeal.
Fortunately, Kym is like-minded and not much of “chick” in the traditional sense (definitely the Tom Boy type, lucky for me!)
I’ll concede “The Big Chill” as a decent flick — but purely from the standpoint of boomer nostalgia. And I confess I’ve never even seen “Titanic” (the trailer alone warned me off for cl quotient).
Call me shallow and callused, but I want movies that entertain , not tug at my heart strings.
Probably why I flunked SM 101. 🙂
Yes, Mark…agreed. But ’tis the nature of chick-flicks, and these were entertaining, were they not? They did both…provided laughs, good story, quotable quotes, all while pulling on those strings. At least for me.
And thank you for correctly stating the title of “Water for Elephants.” Most people say, “Like Water for Elephants.” You earned some brownie points there, buddy.
Ha! And here I always figured the addition to the Gruen title was, like, Valley Talk, as in, “So, like, how do you carry, like, water to elephants.”
You’re too much! I always thought it was people confusing “Like Water for Chocolate” with it. Pretty soon it will be, “Like Water for Chocolate Elephants.”
Mmmm…I want a chocolate elephant in my Easter basket this year.
Swifty,
Are you serious with this list? Not even my wife’s gay friends would make a list like this. Medical science made the discovery recently. The testosterone levels of the male decline as we age. You need to go to see the doctor and get your level checked. You will start watching better movies and you will re-discover the ability to hit a baseball. It works for me.
Titanic is worthy to make any list. Even knowing how it would end, I thought it was still enjoyable.
You did not mention:
Gone With the Wind
Ghost
Pretty Woman
Devil wears Prada
Dirty Dancing
City of Angels
Always (I actually like this movie. Great flying scenes)
Something’s got to Give
Bull Durham (It made Oprah’s top 50 list. Dude she has a better list than you)
The Bodyguard
Please go see the Dr. and get your levels checked. There is no shame in that. There is great shame in making another list like this. If you go read the post I just did, you will find something worthy of real shame. Ha ha.
In all seriousness, glad to have you back my brother!
Many of the ones you listed were under consideration, but I wanted to include ones that weren’t on everybody else’s list. And Oprah usually asks my opinion when compiling hers.
I will have those Testosterone levels checked, though. And man…I’ve truly been sick as a dog. May be going to the hospital.
I would add Kill Bill, Volumes I and II. And Aliens. And Catwoman.
I did just watch Catwoman the other day. I’ve seen it about a dozen times…really like that movie, for some reason.
Interesting list. Good to see your smiling dial again. Just in time for Hang the Cat.
Yeah…like I tried to imply…it’s not necessarily a group of top movies, per se, but ones that touched me in one way or another. And I wanted to stay away from the typical ones that people list. The only one I regret and wish for one of the movies from the cutting room floor to take its place is Titanic.
The Big Chill is one of my all time fave movies, not sure why but it is 🙂
Cool list 🙂
Thanks, Lexie. Yeah…great cast (and young in their careers), great soundtrack, great storyline…you can’t miss.
Fried Green Tomatoes, my all time favorite. Love Titanic, too. Feel better, Mike.
Thanks, D. I could watch FGT over and over. It never gets old.
Boy, don’t you feel sorry for guys who are so worried about their testosterone levels, they can’t enjoy a great movie?
Exactly what I was shooting for, LD! Drop the facade and enjoy the damn flick is what I say.
Sleepless in Seattle! Sweet! I forgot that one on my mega honorable mention list . . .may have to fix it.
Mike,
Get better soon so I can give you some well-deserved crap for this list. In your weakened condition, you probably would not survive.
Thanks, Joe. I’m looking forward to the crap. Excellent way to recoup. 🙂
Yes, I was torn between that one and You’ve Got Mail when I was looking for a Nora Ephron film. It won out, mainly because of the spiel that Tom’s character discussed with the radio psychologist (or whatever she was), but the kid was good, too. “She’s a HO!”
I will admit to having seen a couple of those… but only a couple. 🙂
Admitting it is the first step in recovery, Jeff. You’re now on your way to total wussihood. Congrats. Man boobs are next.
A great list of movies here, though there are a couple here I haven’t seen. Thanks for compiling such a list 🙂
And thanks for stopping by, Trisha! I personally guarantee viewing pleasure with each and every one of these. Or my name isn’t MovieFone Mike.
ok, if you want to watch titanic with me, i’m all for it. i’ll pop you and my hubs some popcorn while i get front row seats!!
Caramel popcorn, please. And Dr. Pepper. And Junior Mints. And your husband is taking up more than his fair share of the couch.
“Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood” was fantastic even if it didn’t make my top 10 list. Part drama, part comedy, part romance, and part quirk. I thought it reflects life quite nicely. :3
Very much so! I’ve seen it about half a dozen times now. And the song, “Dimming of the Day,” which I had never heard of before that movie, has become one of my all-time faves. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!