Earth Girls Are Easy

Earth Girls Are Easy is a science-fiction romantic comedy, a blend of lighthearted humor and sci-fi eccentricities, released in 1988. The movie presents a unique take on the classic genre, starring Geena Davis, Jeff Goldblum, and a young, vibrant Jim Carrey. Both a spoof of and tribute to the science fiction B-movies of the 1950s and '60s, Earth Girls Are Easy stands apart for its blend of comedy, weird science, and unreservedly funny script, one that consciously plays with stereotypes while also showcasing impressive special effects, catchy music, and elaborate musical numbers.

Geena Davis shines in the lead role of Valerie Gale, a sweet and naive manicurist living in the San Fernando Valley with her cheating fiancé, Ted. Davis, an Oscar-winning actress, portrays the role with her usual charm and good-natured humor, perfectly portraying the bubbly and cheerful but frustrated character.

Things take an otherworldly turn when a spaceship with three hairy, fluorescent beings lands in her swimming pool. The extraterrestrial trio, portrayed by Jeff Goldblum, Jim Carrey, and Damon Wayans, are high-energy, charming aliens from the planet Jhazzala. Their humanoid but quirky nature adds a layer of whimsy and intrigue to their characters.

Goldblum, known for his charismatic roles, plays the role of Mac, the spaceship's captain. He delivers an engaging performance as an alien come to Earth, providing much of the film's romantic interest. Using mostly physical acting due to the language barrier, he carefully balances his portrayal of Mac between charismatic curiosity and childlike innocence about Earth's ways.

Then there's Jim Carrey, who plays Wiploc, one of the alien earthlings. Viewers see a young Carrey on the big screen, right before his star shot to fame in the early '90s. Despite not having much dialogue, Carrey manages to inject his trademark slapstick humor and over-the-top facial expressions into his character, stealing every scene he’s in with his hilarious antics.

The aliens, after being found by Valerie, undergo a makeover to blend in with the human population, with the help of Valerie's friend Candy, charmingly portrayed by the talented Julie Brown. This transition creates comedic situations, cultural misunderstandings, and several humorous yet catchy musical numbers, giving the film a fun, bubblegum-pop, campy tone that's an absolute delight to watch.

Director Julien Temple, known for his rock & roll sensibilities and British punk aesthetics, brings a musical touch to the film. His love for old-fashioned musicals is evident throughout the movie, with its bright and colorful ambiance—particularly in the '80s aesthetic—energetic dance numbers, and original songs composed specifically for the film.

Earthy Girls Are Easy was developed from a song written by Julie Brown, Charlie Coffey, and Terrence E. McNally, which was featured on Brown's 1984 mini-album “Goddess in Progress." As a result, the movie has the distinctive quality of a madcap musical, extended into a full-length feature film, and pulses with vibrantly neon-tinged energy.

Despite its seemingly fluffy exterior, Earth Girls Are Easy also cleverly satirizes Southern California life and its culture, from the materialism to the obsession with appearances, using tongue-in-cheek references liberally sprinkled throughout the movie. It's this aspect that gives the film its surprising depth, balancing the comedic and sci-fi elements perfectly.

In many ways, Earth Girls Are Easy is indicative of the cultural ethos of the late '80s. It provides a perfect viewing experience for those seeking an entertainingly fun film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The quirky comedy, cuddly extraterrestrials, and riveting intergalactic romance, set against the backdrop of a vividly colorful San Fernando Valley, make this movie an endearingly eccentric product of the '80s. Additionally, the performances from Davis, Goldblum, and Carrey are worth watching, backed by an unexpectedly engaging narrative and exuberantly catchy songs and dances.

Earth Girls Are Easy encapsulates the charm of 1980s pop culture—a tribute to its vibrancy and unique style—making it a classic popcorn flick with a heartwarming alien twist. It's a film that truly lives up to its premise, delivering an entertaining and unique blend of sci-fiction and rom-com genres that's guaranteed to bring a smile to every viewer's face.