Remember the good old days when technology seemed simpler? Ellen Degeneres hilariously reminds us of this on her show, where she challenges younger people to figure out how to use a rotary phone or a boom box. And let’s not forget the VHS tapes and recorders! If you’re feeling nostalgic for those 80s movie classics, look no further than “VHYes.” This delightful film will transport you back in time, evoking a sense of joy and youthful spirit. Shot entirely on a VHS camera, VHYes brings back the charm and fun of that era.
VHYes Cast:
- Mason McNulty
- Rahm Braslaw
- Kerri Kenney
- Charlyne Yi
- Courtney Pauroso
- Thomas Lennon
- Mark Proksch
Some of the comedic elements utilized within the narrative for VHYes will make you wonder if that old VHS player might be in a box somewhere in your garage. For those who think TikTok was the beginning of anyone anywhere making anything on camera, you’re wrong. As for who started this whole trend of capturing moments, I think the credit goes back to us (Gen Xers). Back in the 70s VHS cameras showed people eating weird things on camera way before the rise of kicking tops off bottles and dancing online.
Whatever Boomer, You’re From the 80s
In this 1980s throwback film, VHYes, we are transported into the world of Ralph (portrayed by the talented Rahm Braslaw) as he embarks on an exhilarating journey into the realm of amateur filmmaking. Ralph starts the ball rolling by accidentally recording over the top of his parents’ precious wedding video.
VHYes weaves together a mosaic of 1980s television snippets, late-night sketches, and Ralph’s narrative. The title enters the realm of soft porn, avant-garde art shows, and soul-piercing punk rock melodies, all right there in the cozy confines of the living room. You can almost feel the crackling energy of those old VHS tapes and cassettes.
Amidst this whirlwind of visuals and sounds, VHYes cleverly tackles a myriad of profound social topics, gesturing towards the timeless nature of human experience. Ralph’s journey is immersive, and you’ll realize that while technology may have advanced, the essence of our lives remains remarkably unchanged.
VHYes Movie Review
Picture this: a scene at the cinema, where Ralph and his ever-enthusiastic best friend Josh eagerly discuss the upcoming film. The excitement in the air is palpable, and Ralph’s insatiable desire to capture every moment with his camera becomes a defining moment. It’s a testament to the film’s ability to encapsulate the essence of youth, friendship, and the unyielding passion for the art of storytelling.
VHYes is an unmissable cinematic masterpiece that will leave you breathless, immersed in a world where the boundaries of reality and imagination blur, where the mundane becomes extraordinary. So, grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the fascinating universe of VHYes!
“You record it, I’m going to enjoy it.”
VHYes quote from Ralph played by Mason McNulty
With small quips throughout the movie, messages about lots of things in the present day are pushed to the forefront. The film becomes less haphazard and more unified as a result.
Capturing Forgotten Memories 80s Movies Classics
What this film did for me was stir up a whole heap of forgotten memories. My time was spent setting timers to record music videos and painstakingly pausing the tape to remove all the ads. There were only so many songs you could get on one VHS tape. The results were never perfect but it mattered. The thing is, everyone wants to remember their lives. It’s evident in the global entity that is social media. The fact that literally anyone and their dog can now present who they are is still as cool now as it was then, only with a wider audience. Well, maybe it’s not cool all the time, but it’s probably better than a hot Winter.
VHYes is short enough (72 minutes) and has enough going on visually that you really find you won’t look away from the screen. The storyline is minimal, but you simply have to see it to understand that it’s worth a second viewing.
I give VHYes
3 ‘We don’t need polar bears‘ out of 5
VHYes was acquired as a screener for review purposes. Directed and created by Jack Henry Robbins alongside creators Nunzio Randazzo and Nate Gold, VHYes premiered in 2019 at Fantastic Fest.
How to Watch VHYes
VHYes is streaming on:
VHYes Official Trailer
