Watchlist Wednesdays: Something Wild (1986)

Jonathan Demme’s Something Wild (1986) is a genre-defying gem that blends romantic comedy, thriller, and punk aesthetics into one unforgettable ride. With a subversive narrative, dynamic characters, and a killer soundtrack, the film offers a vibrant portrait of rebellion, identity, and the unpredictability of life. Below, we’ll explore its plot, feminist undertones, and cultural impact, along with where you can stream it.

The film begins when mild-mannered yuppie Charles Driggs (Jeff Daniels) meets the unpredictable Lulu (Melanie Griffith), a free-spirited woman who sweeps him into a whirlwind adventure. What starts as a quirky road trip quickly takes darker and more thrilling turns as Charles gets drawn into Lulu’s chaotic world—and her tumultuous past with her dangerous ex-husband, Ray (Ray Liotta). The tonal shifts, from screwball comedy to gritty suspense, make for an exhilarating and unpredictable experience.

Something Wild challenges the manic pixie dream girl trope by giving Lulu depth and autonomy. While she initially appears as the archetypal free spirit designed to disrupt Charles’s orderly life, Lulu emerges as a fully realized character with her own struggles, desires, and agency. Her rebellion isn’t just a quirky personality trait; it’s a response to a patriarchal world that expects conformity. The film allows her to reclaim control of her narrative, particularly when facing her abusive ex-husband. This feminist subtext adds richness to Lulu’s character, making her more than just a catalyst for Charles’s growth.

Moreover, there's something that just feels special about this film's timing amongst Melanie Griffith's career. Sandwiched between movies like Fear City, Body Double, and Cherry 2000, it was clear Griffith was focused on roles portraying strong and sexual women who were explicitly written with individualized substance. This seems somewhat reflective of an exercise in gaining autonomy, as prior to these films she had been in nude scenes at only 17 in Arthur Penn's Night Moves. While the characters in Fear City and Body Double may still be taken advantage of in some ways, there's a real sense of fighting back in them. Through Something Wild, there's an even greater growth in this direction. Ultimately landing in Cherry 2000, a film dealing with sex bots in the future - where she shines again at showing the well-rounded aspects of a sexual woman who isn't in a submissive position, but instead fully grasping a life and complex decisions of her own.

Demme’s direction brings the punk and new wave aesthetic to life with meticulous attention to detail. From Lulu’s bold wardrobe—featuring edgy patterns, statement accessories, and leather jackets—to the neon-lit backdrops and diners, the film exudes a stylish 80s punk vibe. The soundtrack, featuring artists like The Feelies and David Byrne, perfectly complements the visual aesthetic, immersing viewers in the cultural mood of the era. Demme's ability to incorporate these elements seamlessly into the narrative solidifies Something Wild as a standout example of punk’s influence on mainstream cinema. But it's not surprising, considering how many amazing music documentaries and music videos Demme's responsible for - despite this knowledge, it's still evident that this film is where his love for the genre really shines.

Something Wild is available for streaming on platforms like The Criterion Channel and rental services like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Don't forget to check your local video rental store!

With its unpredictable storyline, feminist perspective, and unmatched visual and musical time capsule vibe, Something Wild remains one of Jonathan Demme’s most unique films. It’s a portrait of self-discovery wrapped in a punk rock package, offering a blend of humor, danger, and raw emotion. If you’re in the mood for a film that defies categorization and keeps you guessing, this is the wild ride for you. Oh, and bonus: John Waters is a used car salesman. You're welcome!