Still, the film had a simple story, engaging characters, seasonal whimsy and just enough individuality to suggest it could become a Christmas viewing staple for many (and can certainly see myself re-watching). There was everything from the recognisable kids I grew up with (the compulsive liar, the rich kid with the best toys but shitty attitude, etc) as well as recognisable cornerstones of my own childhood (losing the dreaded retainer, the must have, seemingly unattainable toy, the embarrassing clothing items etc). This particular blend brought to mind so much of my own childhood growing up in the late 80’s/early 90’s. Perhaps there’s an argument that nostalgia in its delivery and dosage also differs person to person (my upcoming moans will undoubtedly ring true for some viewers of this film). What it also did was strike me particularly effectively.
The film plays out like A Christmas Story, with the present story-telling asides of The Princess Bride. 8-Bit Christmas as a recent example, is to all intents and purposes, an ‘original’ property, though based on a popular, if not pop culture, book. Good nostalgia can also be in tapping into relatable era memories. Hot Fuzz as an example sent up old school action films to good effect, whilst ensuring our characters were engaging and likeable. Edgar Wright has always used homage nicely, with heady doses of nostalgia, but never forgetting to make it more a part of the film’s DNA, and as a brushstroke to add character layers. This is a good use of what is essentially a creative tool to grab your audience. Occasionally you can do something that is openly irreverent, where nostalgia becomes a key component of the story for example. Judd Apatow’s peak era films were renowned for a heavy peppering of retro nostalgic references. For one it didn’t fit what I was writing at the time, but additionally, if you throw in reference upon reference you’re essentially throwing in comparison points (especially if you happen to reference an action classic, within an action film). “Don’t keep referencing other films…” In retrospect it was entirely correct. “Shall we make an A-Team gag?” “Sure, people will like that.
#GOOD DONE REAL WAR OUR NOSTALGIA TV#
Lighter films like comedy and action as an example can constantly make mini-call backs to old TV and films. It could be a remake or franchise addition to something long established, say Ghostbusters: Afterlife, or it could be another trend within mainstream cinema. Film-makers likewise, are tending to indulge their desires to revisit childhood favourites too. There’s this strange and almost blinded fascination among studios to perpetually target nostalgia. In the most simple terms, you could argue that nostalgia essentially drives a market almost exclusively focused on franchise, reboots, existing IP, and adaptations. This brings us to a humble, often warming element in cinema (particularly mainstream). Too much triggers the taste buds negatively. The point is, even the most ardent of sweet toothed patisserie fiend (me), has a limit to how much sugar should be in a recipe. Let’s face it, there’s almost no nutritional value, but it’s pleasing. Sugar is good right? The contentious ingredient has taken the blame for so many modern health issues over the years. In a recipe, each ingredient plays a part.
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