There’s a big difference between movies that were made in the ’80s, and ’80s Movies.’ Having a devoted affliction for the culture, music, and films of that decade, I’ve come to appreciate that facet. Released February 13, 1987, the rom-com “Mannequin”” clearly falls into the category of ’80s movies. With its cheesy opening credit animation done to the tune of an era specific pop track, outlandish wardrobe of the characters and an undeniable quirky theme, the movie would have had no business being released during any other decade in cinematic history.
The 1980s also saw the birthing of music videos and MTV. One of the most popular songs of the time period is the Starship hit “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.” Featured in “Mannequin,” the song, and its accompanying video (which plays out like a trailer for the movie) have become synonymous with the film. Only during the ’80s would or could something like this take place.
“Mannequin” wraps goofy laughs and overly tame gags around a unique, though highly under explained love story. Set in Philadelphia, the plot follows Jonathan Switcher (Andrew McCarthy) as an artistic sculptor with a flair for creativity. At the film’s onset, Jonathan is employed at a mannequin factory where he is promptly fired after spending an inordinate amount of time designing one particular female dummy.
After Jonathan quickly wares out his welcome with several menial jobs, he manages to land a position at Prince & Company, a large center city department store owned by a good natured older woman (Estelle Getty). The mannequin Jonathan was fired for creating is displayed in the Prince & Company front window, which draws him to the store.
Celebrating its 100 year anniversary, Prince & Company is losing business and is in jeopardy of being bought out. Jonathan soon discovers that the mannequin he created comes to life in his presence alone (portrayed by “Sex in the City’s” Kim Cattrall) sparking an unorthodox love connection.
“Mannequin” makes no effort at a deep and well developed plot. The story is a simple love tale conjured at the hands of fantasy. The driving force of the plot is explained in a succinct manner, and requires the viewer to accept it for no other reason than to advance the story. Luckily, the movie is meant for fun and not to take a run at deep literature.
“Mannequin” introduces us to iconic ’80s character Hollywood Montrose (Meshach Taylor) – the flamboyant window designer who befriends and helps Jonathan, and features a horde of antagonists that are more cartoonish than sinister; the overzealous night watchman Captain Felix Maxwell (G.W. Bailey) and his cowardly dog Rambo, Jonathan’s bitchy ex girlfriend Roxie (Carole Davis) and a young James Spader as the smarmy Prince & Company manager Mr. Richards.
“Mannequin” is a fun film that’s quick and memorable. I found myself snickering at the thought of people in 1987 actually going to the theatre to see it.
by – Matt Christopher
