Throwback review: Clueless

Who can believe that Clueless was first released 25 years ago, all the way back in 1995? We look back on the 90s classic as it celebrates its anniversary this year.

The film has inspired a generation, and is still an iconic teen movie today, with plenty of shops still selling merchandise with classic quotes from the film on it, most famously “Ugh, as if!”

Set in the luxurious location of Beverly Hills, we follow the life of high school student Cher Horowitz, and her friends Dionne and Tai. Most people don’t know that the entire movie only took 40 days to film, but it’s still full of brilliant witty comebacks.

The film starts with Cher picking out her school clothes, – which may sound like a simple task, but this is no easy choice. This is why Cher relies on her computer (yes, computer!) to decide on her outfit for her.  The plot starts to thicken when Cher and Dionne set up their teachers together, and after their success they decide to test themselves by transforming the new girl (Tai) with a makeover. But this not only leads to a power struggle, as it also makes all the girls question their self-worth.

Throughout the film we watch the rich and beautiful overcome trivial first world problems – such as boys, makeovers and parties. Cher taught us many things, including that the grades we receive are just the first offer in a debate, and to always do a lap of an event before deciding where to sit.

Some of the best moments from the film included Tai’s transformation, and Cher realising she is in love with her ex-stepbrother. But who could forget all the times someone tried to teach Cher how to drive, all of Dionne’s amazing hats, or when at gunpoint Cher was more worried about her Alaia dress than her life!

The film also inspired Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy” music video, released back in 2013. Where Iggy even wore the same outfits that Cher did in the movie, proving the movie is still iconic today.

Alicia Silverstone (Cher) has been in many TV shows and films since landing the lead in Clueless, as that was only the start of her very successful career. She has most recently been in films like Book Club and Valley Girl, and the Netflix series The Baby-Sitters Club.

But one of her best TV appearances was when she appeared on Lip Sync Battle and performed “Fancy” the song based on Clueless, and she even dressed as Izzy dressing as her!

Ultimately, Clueless is one of them iconic movies that proves to stand the test of time as it is popular for any generation.

By Laycie Beck

Feature image: Pitchfork