Cult classic (Empire Records (DVD))

Member Name: Parisjetaime

Product:	Empire Records (DVD)
Date:	06/05/01 (69 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cool characters, funky plot, Fantastic soundtrack

Disadvantages: Not widely recognised or available in video stores

Empire Records is a film every self-repecting person under the age of 25 should see. Here in Britain, you can sort the cool from the wannabes by asking them if they've seen it.

Empire Records was unfortunately only released in London, and therefore the average Blockbuster store won't have it. Seek it out though - you'll be rewarded by stellar performances from Renee Zellweger (way before Jerry Maguire and Bridget Jones), Liv Tyler (in her first major acting role), Rory Cochrane (of Dazed and Confused fame) and Ethan Embry (also in That Thing You Do with Liv). Basically, the plot revolves around this eclectic group of young people doing what we all, deep down, want to do - get paid to 'work' in the funkiest record store in town. The film covers only one day in the store's life, but what a day it is!

Firstly, it's 'Rex Manning day' - Rex Manning being a sleazy, cheesy pop star with an expanding waistline and no credibility. Well done to Max Caulfield (the lead in Grease 2) for taking on such a role! He brings just the right amount of irony to the character. Secondly, although the workers appear happy and normal at first, they all have hidden and suppressed dilemmas, which (surprise surprise!) are revealed during the day. AJ (Johnny Whitworth) is head over heels in love with Corey (Liv); Corey has a speed habit due to the pressure on her from her father; Gina (Renee) has no scruples in sleeping with anyone (even sleazy older men... guess who?); Debra (Robin Tunney) regularly tries to commit suicide; Lucas (Rory) is in serious money problems; and Mark really really wants to be in a band. The main plot which gels all these things together is the store's money problems, which are handily resolved by an improvised concert fundraiser.

The film is full of classic moments. Highlights for me include Lucas chasing a shoplifter around the store and its vicinity, and when the workers all strip off and dance aroun
d the store. Oh, and the music of course. It's so cool, you'll want to get up and dance as well. Unfortunately, the soundtrack album (which I bought, being such a fan) doesn't include most of the best songs.

The cult status of this movie is very high, and deservedly so. The plot and performances are excellent, while little touches give it that edge. Ever since I saw it several years ago I have been attempting to spread the word to others. When you see it, you'll know why.

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