film

Amy Heckerling’s Clueless is one of the defining teen comedies of the 1990s, an endlessly bright, witty and quotable reworking of Jane Austen’s Emma transplanted to Beverly Hills. Alicia Silverstone is perfect as Cher Horowitz, a wealthy, fashion-obsessed high-school student whose apparently shallow existence masks a generous and perceptive nature. Alongside her best friend Dionne (Stacey Dash), Cher occupies herself with matchmaking, makeovers and navigating the social hierarchy of her school, while neglecting or ignoring her own romantic feelings.

Heckerling expertly mixed satirical observations with genuine affection for Clueless's characters, and the film's slang, clothes and soundtrack have become deeply embedded in popular culture. Silverstone’s charismatic central performance gives Cher a warmth that prevents the character becoming a caricature, while the earthly angel known as Paul Rudd, who still hasn't aged a day since playing Josh, is a wonderful romantic counterpoint.