Watch Johnny Suede

Johnny Suede, released in 1991, is a coming-of-age movie, set in the gritty streets of New York City. The movie stars Brad Pitt as Johnny Suede, a young man with dreams of becoming a rock star, who spends his days writing songs, practicing guitar, and hanging out with his bandmates. He is a character straight out of the 1950s, with an unusual sense of style that includes tight leather pants, a pompadour hairstyle, and a pair of blue suede shoes.

The film opens with Johnny sitting in his dingy apartment, strumming his guitar and dreaming of stardom. He stumbles upon a pair of blue suede shoes, which he is convinced are the key to his success. Johnny begins wearing the shoes everywhere he goes, hoping they'll bring him the fame and fortune he has always dreamed of. However, his aspirations are challenged when he is forced to confront the harsh realities of life.

Johnny meets a young woman named Yvonne, played by Catherine Keener, who steals his heart. However, Yvonne is not interested in Johnny's rock star dreams and instead encourages him to find a regular job. This sends Johnny into a spiral of self-doubt and insecurity, as he grapples with the idea of giving up his dreams for a more stable life.

Throughout the film, Johnny becomes entangled in a series of misadventures. He is pursued by a gang of thugs, who are after a valuable object he possesses. He also befriends a pair of eccentric characters, played by Richard Boes and Cheryl Costa, who provide comic relief throughout the movie. Despite these setbacks, Johnny remains determined to pursue his passion for music, even if it means sacrificing everything else.

One of the most striking aspects of Johnny Suede is its portrayal of a bygone era. The movie is set in the early 1990s but draws heavily on the aesthetic of the 1950s. The characters are all dressed in retro clothing, and the soundtrack is filled with classic rock and roll tunes. The film's use of black and white cinematography further enhances this vintage feel.

At its core, Johnny Suede is a meditation on the human need for meaning and purpose. It explores the idea of chasing your dreams, even in the face of adversity. The film's message is one that is universally relatable, no matter the time period or setting. The characters are flawed and imperfect, but ultimately lovable in their own way.

Brad Pitt's performance as Johnny Suede is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the movie. He brings a raw vulnerability to the character, making him come across as both likable and flawed. Despite his rock star aspirations, Johnny is portrayed as a relatable everyman, struggling to find his place in the world. Pitt's performance is both endearing and captivating, making the viewer root for Johnny's success.

Overall, Johnny Suede is a charming and quirky movie that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. Its vintage aesthetic and lovable characters make it a cult classic, and its themes of self-discovery and perseverance make it a universal story that continues to resonate with audiences today. For those looking for a feel-good movie with a touch of nostalgia, Johnny Suede is sure to deliver.

Johnny Suede is a 1992 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8 and a MetaScore of 53.