Roxanne (1987)

In the world of 1980s cinema, when comedy flourished in all its diversity, "Roxanne" emerged—a 1987 film directed by Fred Schepisi. This isn't just another attempt to make the audience laugh; it's a deep, touching story, wrapped in sparkling humor, raising eternal questions about appearance and the inner essence of a person. Schepisi managed to create a picture that, despite its comedic foundation, leaves a warm aftertaste and makes one ponder what it truly means to see another person.

Plot (no spoilers)

At the center of the story is C.D. Bales, a respected firefighter in a small town. He has a kind heart, a sharp mind, and a poetic soul, but there's one detail that, in his opinion, overshadows all his virtues: his nose. Immoderately large, it becomes a source of complexes and an obstacle on his path to personal happiness. And then Roxanne appears in his life—a charming, romantic, and kind eccentric, with whom Bales falls madly in love. But Roxanne is already captivated by Chris, C.D.'s new subordinate, the local heartthrob. The problem is that Chris is completely unable to express his thoughts, especially when it comes to profound feelings. Seeing Chris's despair, Bales, in a surge of nobility and hidden hope, agrees to write love letters on his behalf, pouring all his poetry and tenderness into them. This dangerous game becomes a trial for all three, as sooner or later the truth must come out.

Why it's worth watching

• A deep look at inner beauty. The film brilliantly explores the theme that true attractiveness lies not in external appearance, but in intelligence, kindness, and the ability to express one's feelings.
• A classic plot trope in a modern key. The story of secret love and mistaken identity, tracing back to famous literary sources, receives a fresh and witty interpretation here, filled with humor and drama.
• Subtle humor and heartfeltness. "Roxanne" skillfully balances between pure situational comedy and a sincere, touching romantic story, without descending into vulgarity or melodrama.
• The acting ensemble. Director Fred Schepisi assembled a talented cast who convincingly embody the characters, making them vivid and multi-dimensional.

Themes

At the heart of "Roxanne" lies the conflict between appearance and reality. The film questions conventional beauty standards, inviting the viewer to consider what truly matters in relationships. The theme of sincerity and deception permeates the entire plot, showing how good intentions can lead to complex moral dilemmas. It is also a story about self-sacrifice for the sake of love and how poetry and words can be a powerful tool for expressing the soul, capable of overcoming any external barriers.

Verdict

"Roxanne" is a comedy that has long outgrown the status of merely an entertaining film. It is a smart, warm, and deeply human work that proves that true love is capable of seeing beyond the facade, looking into the soul, and appreciating a person for who they truly are. If you are looking for a film that will make you laugh and think, inspire faith in the good, and remind you of the power of sincere feelings, then "Roxanne" from 1987 is exactly what you need. We recommend it to all connoisseurs of quality romantic comedy.