Movies for 20-Somethings in New York
Last night, I spent almost a half-n-hour looking for a way to watch How to Be Single. Investigating free trials, tapping into my fiancé’s logins or renting it for $3.99- I was desperate. I almost purchased it for $14.99, figuring if I’m putting this much effort in, I’d probably watch it a couple more times.
What is it about these 20-somethings-in-NYC movies that I love so much? I mean, yes, I’ve been living in New York since I graduated college five years ago, but it has to be more than that.
You know the plot goes: the main character is usually a flailing creative, single and barely covering rent as they pursue some passion. I find myself drawn to these films even more as my life diverges from the plot lines. Currently, I’m engaged with a stable job, benefits, and a pretty dope apartment.
Actually, scratch the last part — these characters often have dope, if not unrealistic apartments too. We’re talking studios that are impossibly large with painted walls, intricate bed frames and light fixtures that are NOT what is happening behind all the fake walls in the East Village.
So, if it’s not a reflection of my life per se, why do I crave these films?
It’s simply their journeys. Their constant state of searching, meandering through New York neighborhoods, fueled by something seemingly impossible. They’re trying to figure out how to make their mark in this city, just like me.
What a cliché.
But I eat it UP.
I feel myself grinning when the character says something bombastic walking down a street I know. When there’s a moody subway scene, I immediately look up the song playing for the next time I do it myself.
I want my life to have this magical gloss. To have all this random, meaningless stuff…well, mean something.
And being the lead in a movie, it means we’re significant..
Right?
Unfortunately, our life goes on after the optimistic endings and credits. But if I can keep going, keep smiling at these scenes, things must be on their way.
Here are the movies that I’m talking about. This is NOT my list of favorite New York movies, only a very specific subcategory:
Originally published at https://emilybarbara.squarespace.com on May 24, 2021.
