Some movies everyone seems to know are classics like Titanic or The Godfather. You hear the titles constantly, see the posters everywhere, and eventually accept that you’re supposed to love them. Then there are movies where you hear someone call them a “classic” and think, “Wait…this is a classic?” And that was my reaction to Empire Records.
Released in 1995, Empire Records follows a group of young employees working at an independent record store as they deal with relationships, friendships, personal problems, and the possibility of their beloved store being taken over by a large chain, Music Town. Over the course of one very chaotic day, the employees try to keep Empire Records (and each other) from falling apart.
The movie was not exactly a massive success when it first came out. In fact, its theatrical release was relatively quiet. There was a production budget of $10 million, but in total, the film only earned approximately $300,00 at the box office. But over time, Empire Records developed a devoted following and became what we now call a cult classic. And honestly? I can see why.
So…Why is it a classic?
I believe the biggest reason Empire Records has lasted is because of its characters. The movie isn’t really about the plot. If you’re looking for a tightly constructed story with perfectly developed conflicts and resolutions, this movie probably isn’t for you. Instead, Empire Records is about a group of young people who feel like they’re stuck somewhere between childhood and adulthood. I don’t know about you, but I am a sucker for these types of films.
There’s Corey, who is struggling with her feelings and expectations for her future. There’s A.J., who is trying to decipher his feelings for Corey. There’s Deb, who is dealing with personal struggles while trying to find her place among her friends. And then there’s Mark. Mark, the one who gambled away Joe’s (the owner of Empire Records) money. Mark, the one who seems to exist on an almost entirely different planet.
They are messy, dramatic, funny, immature, and frustrating. Especially Mark. I facepalmed multiple times while watching! But that’s what makes them feel so real. The characters don’t always make the smartest decisions, but that’s part of the point. They are young people trying to figure themselves out while working jobs that, at least for a moment, give them somewhere to belong.
One thing I have to talk about when discussing Empire Records is the soundtrack. Talk about insane because it was! The soundtrack is packed with alternative and rock music from the 1990s, featuring artists like The Cranberries, Gin Blossoms, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and The Lemonheads. The soundtrack brings the film’s personality to life. It immerses you as a viewer. Suddenly, you are a teenager in the 1990s, blasting punk rock while dusting off vinyl records.
Does it still hold up?
This is where I have mixed feelings. Empire Records is not a perfect movie. For instance, some of the dialogue can feel overly dramatic, and some characters are exaggerated. Certain storylines could have been handled with more depth, but I don’t necessarily think that’s a bad thing.
I believe that part of the appeal of Empire Records, at least to me, is that it feels like a ‘90s movie. It isn’t trying to be some timeless piece of art in the traditional sense. The clothes worn, the music played, the humor spoken, and the attitude portrayed all make Empire Records a ‘90s time capsule. And that’s why it works.
So, is Empire Records actually a classic?
I think it is…a cult classic. Let me explain.
It isn’t a classic because it’s the most technically perfect movie ever. Nor is it a classic because it was a huge success when it came out. Instead, I think it’s a classic because people remember it. People obviously connected with these characters and still connect with the music. They connected with the idea of a little independent place that felt like it belonged to them. And even decades later, people are still discovering it. That’s what makes this film a cult classic. It’s a movie that doesn’t become important because movie critics unanimously declared it brilliant. It becomes important to a particular group of people refusing to let it disappear.
Don’t expect this movie to be perfect. Expect it to be fun, messy, extremely ‘90s, and full of people who care way too much about a record store.
Which I believe is the whole point.
