He doesn't look a thing like Jesus

author's note: this post was written in a reactive state of mind - originally saved as a draft (i get into trouble with gender issues). i have debated whether or not to publish it, but ultimately decided to give it some air. words are only words, after all - and as i've stated in the past, 95% of what i say should be disregarded as self-indulgent conjecture. enjoy.

(Why girls don't like the movie Knocked Up)

They shun the thought of loving someone less than a heroic savior figure. Especially sheltered good girls, to use a broadly evocative term.

As the "weaker vessel" (constantly conditioned as such, at least) there is perhaps the feeling of a need for earthly redemption via an unattainably perfect mate - one who will rescue them from all of their shortcomings, having none of his own. Relationship bliss not through reciprocal symbiosis, but rather the achievement of an ideal other.

Of course, the film depicts a different path. There has been recent discussion of the "Beta Male" paradigm which has become common in comedies such as Judd Apatow's 40 Year Old Virgin and Knocked Up. Both abandon angelic, model-cut male lead roles for - here comes the shocker - actors and characters who resemble human beings. Neither film simply satiates a puerile pornographic fantasy in which a "loser" gets lucky with a hotgirl; they share themes of sincere, heartfelt undertones in depictions of improbably loving relationships gleaned from the bluster of seemingly juvenile comedy.

***Side: In a still patriarchal, male-dominated society the female roles continue to be occupied by gorgeous blond sexies, go figure.***


To quote "Mercenary Territory" by title-inspiring Little Feat:

Some kind of man, he can't do anything wrong,
If I see him I'll tell him you're waiting.
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p.s. - fool that i am, i'd do it all over again