One of the things I love about my book club is that each season we have a social event outside of our monthly meeting. We've gone on a brewery tour in Grand Rapids, a day and night out in Detroit, and a couple times a year we get together for a movie night.
We try to pick a film that, like our books, will inspire good conversation and is about interesting women. To this effect, movies many of us have seen, and even old favorites, make great choices so we don't miss too much while we talk and watch together. We also try to pick something that's on the lighter side because laughter and sparking wine (a requirement for out get togethers) just go together.
Here are some of the films we've watched together or have on our list for future film nights.
Grey Gardens (1975)
Big Edie and Little Edie are the eccentric stars of this documentary set in a decaying mansion in East Hampton. Inspired by the outlandish clothing choices, we came dressed to this movie night in our best Little Edie costumes -- head wraps were a requirement for entry.
9 to 5 (1980)
The sentiment behind the #metoo movement isn't new to those who have been around the block a few times, and this cast of lady bosses is here to remind you that sometimes enough is enough.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
First love, acts of rebellion involving steamy dance scenes, and a collection of stellar one-liners ("Carried a watermelon?!?") make this nostalgic film a perfect pick. Afterwards you can reminisce about your first loves (who were in no way as hot as Johnny).
Clueless (1995)
This modern twist on Jane Austen's Emma deserves its cult classic following. Directed by the talented Amy Heckerling, this cheeky film gets bonus points for playful, cutting dialogue and fantastically 90s costumes.
Bridesmaids (2011)
Comic great Kristen Wiig is at her best in this comedy about a woman who deals with her chaotic life while balancing the daunting duties of being maid of honor for her best friend's wedding. Melissa McCarthy's intense character is a great scene stealer, too.
Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
This Wes Anderson film centers on the very serious Suzy, a dissatisfied teenage who decides to run away from home with her pen pal Sam. Anderson's visual appeal (Colors! Costumes! Tiny details!) make this quest story better than your average coming of age tale.
Trainwreck (2015)
Amy Schumer is a comic force to be reckoned with, and you'll belly-laugh your way through this tale of a journalist's unexpected romance with the studious but smitten subject of her profile piece.
Ladybird (2017)
Watch director Greta Gerwig's fantastic film with your girlfriends and/or mom, and then break out the wine so you can admit what an asshole you were, too, in high school.
What favorite films would you add to the list?
