Ah, romantic comedies – the perfect escape from reality. But have you ever seen one that’s out of this world? Literally. We’re talking about “Earth Girls Are Easy,” the 1988 film that combines rom-com with sci-fi to create a wacky, colorful, and entertaining experience.
What Is Alien Rom-Com?
Before we dive into the movie, let’s define what makes it an alien rom-com. An alien rom-com is a subgenre of romantic comedy that involves extraterrestrial beings in some capacity. It blends the traditional elements of a rom-com, such as a meet-cute and an obstacle that must be overcome, with sci-fi elements like spaceships and otherworldly creatures.
The Plot
In “Earth Girls Are Easy,” three furry and brightly colored aliens – Mac, Wiploc, and Zeebo – crash-land their spaceship in the pool of Valerie, a manicurist living in the San Fernando Valley. Valerie (played by Geena Davis) is in a rocky relationship with her cheating fiancé, but she finds herself drawn to the lovable and mischievous aliens.
As Valerie helps the aliens navigate Los Angeles and learn about life on Earth, she also discovers her own self-worth and finds love in an unexpected place. The road to true love never did run smooth, and with the help of a musical number or two, the aliens and Valerie overcome their differences and fall in love.
The Cast
“Earth Girls Are Easy” boasts an impressive cast of actors who bring their A-game to the wacky and wild world of the movie. Geena Davis is the perfect leading lady, with her comedic timing and relatable charm. Jeff Goldblum, Damon Wayans, and Jim Carrey play the furry aliens with a mixture of childlike wonder and adult sassiness.
In supporting roles, Julie Brown and Michael McKean add to the humor with their over-the-top performances. The entire cast has great chemistry, which helps to ground the absurd storyline in a sense of reality.
The Production
“Earth Girls Are Easy” was directed by Julien Temple and written by Julie Brown, Charlie Coffey, and Terrence E. McNally. The film was produced by Tony Garnett and Duncan Henderson and features music by Nile Rodgers.
The film’s production design is a standout element, with its bright colors and ’80s fashion making it a feast for the eyes. The special effects, while dated by today’s standards, add to the movie’s campy charm.
The Reception
When “Earth Girls Are Easy” was released in 1988, it received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the movie for its originality and humor, while others criticized it for being too silly and over-the-top.
Over time, the movie has gained a cult following and is considered a classic example of an alien rom-com. Its blend of comedy, romance, and sci-fi elements has paved the way for future films in the subgenre.
The Legacy
“Earth Girls Are Easy” may have been ahead of its time, but it has had a lasting impact on pop culture. The musical numbers in the film have become iconic and are still parodied today.
The movie also inspired a Broadway musical adaptation in 2000, which starred Eartha Kitt as the wise and sassy Space Age Sage.
Conclusion
“Earth Girls Are Easy” may not be a perfect movie, but its enduring legacy is a testament to its appeal. It’s a perfect example of how blending genres can create an original and entertaining experience for viewers.
If you’re a fan of romantic comedies and sci-fi, “Earth Girls Are Easy” is a must-watch. Its wacky humor, colorful production design, and catchy musical numbers make it a fun and lighthearted escape from reality.
