I did it.
I found Dogfight on itunes, decided to buy it instead of rent it, and watched it for the first time in 19 years with the Mister. I loved it. I watched parts of it again the next day and will probably watch it at least one more time this week.
I know a lot of people don’t see what I see in this movie. It’s said to be the best movie no one knew River Phoenix did, and I have to agree. The story is uncomfortable, and when you read the summary it’s easy to imagine the movie will be a misogynist’s dream, or maybe some trite love story where no one really changes and yet, somehow, love conquers all.
It’s not. The movie is quiet and understated with a story that is painful, often awkward, but ultimately beautiful. Part of it is the casting. I doubt this movie could have worked with anyone other than River Phoenix and Lili Taylor as the leads. Phoenix is amazing as an immature, young kid trying to resolve the man he can be with the man he thinks he should be. Taylor is equally perfect as the shy, frumpy pacifist who doesn’t know her own strength. For an excellent commentary on this movie (full of spoilers) you must read this post.
Of course, my perspective has changed in 19 years. When I saw this movie I was 19 years old, the same age as the main characters. I saw them as peers and related to the awkwardness, the struggle to figure out who you are and who you will become. Today, I see the movie as a beautiful character study about two very young kids making an unlikely, but important, pairing. The way I identify with this film has changed dramatically. I no longer relate to Taylor’s character, but I still appreciate her struggle. I also see River Phoenix’s character in a new light, and empathize with him much more than I did before.
That said, some things haven’t changed. From the opening scene to the end, one thought ran through my mind this week, much like it did 19 years ago.
MORE HOT.
I’m a sucker for a good love story, and this one delivers. I was euphoric after the Mister and I finished watching it on Monday, especially since he loved it as well. If I have one complaint, it’s that watching River Phoenix is bittersweet. The post I linked to earlier hits on everything that was great about this movie and his performance. What a talent; what a waste.
I just went and watched it on Youtube… it was lovely! Thanks for the recommendation..I agree still hot after all these years.
Agreed.
And I’ve really no choice but to watch it now…
I haven’t watched this movie, but I will.
I’m reading the post you linked to and I just had to get up and walk away from my computer because I unexpected teared up when I saw the still of River Phoenix with his arm around a crying Wil Wheaton in _Stand By Me_. That was such an indelible movie from my childhood.
So, so sad, but so beautiful.
Oh, I know. I want to watch Stand by Me, but I’m sad. I know I will get all worked up. I remember the ending, and I remember what they say about River Phoenix’s character. Prophetic. :(
You should also read the comments on that post. They’re even better than the post.
i thought i was the only one who loved this movie! i know i am not the only one to have loved River Phoenix though – and Lillie Taylor – loved her from the moment i saw her in “Say Anything” as John Cusak’s bestie girlfriend – i had completely forgotten about this movie and remember feeling very similar when watching it – probably because i was a 18 year old trying to figure out “what’s next” thanks for bringing it back – now i have to watch it again
That movie does bring back memories. I thought you did own that movie at one time…VHS? Off the subject, but I haven’t seen “When Harry Met Sally” in so long. I’m sitting here chuckling to myself thinking about “baby fish mouth”. Ah the good ol’ days.
Thanks for turning me on to this movie. I love movies like this. We have netflix so I looked it up and it was available. I am always looking for something to watch when the hubs isn’t there but I think I might watch it again with him. Love the sweet love story! Thanks
I’m glad you liked it! I think it’s a movie most guys won’t roll their eyes at.
I just added it on Netflix. I have a feeling I’m going to bawl my eyes out.
My brother introduced me to this movie many years ago. It has remained one of my all time favorites ever since. It is nice to see others appreciate it as much as myself!
Just finished watching this one… kinda made me sad. I hate to think how true those type of war stories end up being. That last hug totally made the movie though.
I was too scared to watch this when I was younger because I thought it would resonate with me too much. I was called ugly far too much when I was younger. I’m still a bit wary to watch it, honestly, even though I’ve gotten past most of that, but maybe, thanks to your post, I’ll check it out.