I saw Peggy Sue Got Married recently for the first time (streaming on Netflix, peeps!). And wow. What a movie. I'm glad I saw it now, because I certainly see it through a different lens than I would have in younger years. It's a film of middle age, of what ifs, of regrets, of looking back. It's something I understand so well at my age. It's a deliciously subtle movie, full of humor as well.
The movie asks interesting questions about love and relationships - just because relationships can be hard and painful, does it make them any less worthwhile and wonderful? And is there a point to regret, if it's gotten you where you are now, with wonderful things along the way?
I love watching the character progression of Peggy Sue (played by Kathleen Turner). In the beginning she's an insecure middle-aged woman, recently split with her husband and unsure of herself as she gets ready for her high school reunion. But then she goes back in time and she's back in her parent's house as a teenager. She realizes she's a different woman who sees the world a different way. She's empowered, strong, defiant, clear about what she wants, open to new horizons - and there's something amazing about that. It's the difference between being 18 and 35, and you only understand once you've been there. By the end of the film, she realizes what's most important to her, she's open to life and love, but not willing to throw herself under the bus anymore.
I also enjoyed the film visually, It has such a golden soft glow that enhances the nostalgic feel. The most beautiful scene was when she went to visit her grandparents and she's sitting in their house, listening to the rain, while her grandparents sit at the fire, fully appreciating the moment. Gorgeous. And the conversation they have - about death, life, memories. It's beautiful.
If you haven't seen it, do.
p.s. Nicholas Cage did annoy me in this movie, but I have to give him cred for pulling off an insanely obnoxious accent. Oh and Jim Carrey's in it too. And Joan Allen. And Sofia Coppola. And Francis Ford Coppola directed it.
I keep seeing that movie on netflix and keep thinking of watching it... but now you've convinced me.
ReplyDeleteOh thank you! You know I was rather put off by the movie poster myself - sort of an odd cartoony cheesy feel. The movie itself felt different. If you love movies you should see it.
ReplyDeleteI love that you blogged about this movie. I first saw this movie when it came out when I was 11 years old. I liked it because I thought it was a funny story for a movie. I recently watched it again via Netflix and I saw it through a whole different light and I loved it! You were so right in saying "It's the difference between being 18 and 35, and you only understand once you've been there." How true is that! And visually it was lovely, especially at the grandparent's house!
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