No decade in the history of American cinema is more infamous than the 1980's. Filled with childhood classics, unusually gruesome horror films, and unparalleled comedic masterworks, the decade was a time of experimental excess. One genre that was also integral to the experience was the romantic comedy. Virtually every entry produced during the decade has gone on to become a cult classic, with Micheal Gottlieb's Mannequin being no exception. Featuring an astonishing supporting turn by the legendary Meshach Taylor, a wonderfully progressive script, and an unusually sensual approach to an absurd plotline, this is a gem that is worthy of reevaluation.
An ancient Egyptian, Emmy, begs her gods to let her find true love to avoid an arranged marriage and is catapulted through time as a muse to various historical figures, eventually ending up in Philadelphia, trapped inside the body Mannequin. Jonathan, a talented young artist, finds inspiration from Emmy when she reveals her true self, and they begin to fall in love. Gottlieb and Edward Rugoff's script is ridiculous to the point of near parody, however it is anchored by a trifecta of strong performances. Andrew McCarthy (Weekend at Bernie's) stars as Jonathan and it is his natural chemistry with Kim Cattrall's Emmy that is the heart of the picture. The way they interact is organic and wonderfully tempered by restrained and soulful performances. Cattrall’s turn is also memorable, as she is both fiercely independent and headstrong, embracing not only her relationship with Jonathan, but the beauty of the world around her.
However, it is Meschach Taylor's amazing performance as Hollywood that is the most memorable aspect. Considering the decade and the prevalence of homophobic humor and cliche' characters, Hollywood and his treatment by the other characters is a stunning achievement that was thankfully decades ahead of its time. Mannequin is a film that flirts with kink on several levels and one of the best parts is in how Hollywood never judges Jonathan's relationship, and it is his encouragement that inspires most of the store employees to follow suit. Jonathan's instant and instinctual defense of Hollywood against a bigoted security guard is another perfectly acted and slyly written response to a time in American history where the government was actively contributing to the senseless deaths of countless gay citizens.
The final ingredient is the music. Both, the Oscar nominated Nothing Gonna Stop Us Now as well as a wonderful montage sequence in which Jonathan and Emmy explore various sexual scenarios in different costumes, culminating in a poetically shot hang gliding sequence, where Tim Suhrstedt's chic cinematography highlights a surprisingly poignant and empowering scene where Emmy accomplishes one of her dreams, despite being told it was impossible by the Egyptian patriarchy.
Now available for streaming on HBOMax, Mannequin is a delightful love story whose heart overcomes its silly foundation. A pleasant mix of genuine care, hilarious antics, and a love conquers all ambiance are what pushes this film above the middle of the pack. Come for Taylor's unforgettable delivery, stay for a feel-good experience that manages to not take itself seriously while also making some genuinely hopeful commentary on Regan's America.
-Kyle Jonathan