Let's set the scene, it's the late 90s, the economy is booming, and everyone's feeling pretty good. All of a sudden a new cultural phenomenon is taking America by storm American Pie, a movie that became an instant classic for most of my generation (mid /lower 20's whatever you lump me in with) . It was raunchy, outright horrified some parents, and it spoke to something deep within us all growing up as we watched it for the first times with our innocent eyes reggardless of where it may have been; your unsupervised friends basement, rented from the local movie store, or pirated off some website that was guaranteed to send your families computer into the shop.
The movie was a hit, leading to a franchise that lasted well into the 2000s. While the sequels may been a hit or miss , they still held a major impact on American culture. The American Pie series was the blueprint for puberty for many young Americans and even influenced everything from music, how we speak, and setting our expectations high for parties.
How many times have you heard someone say "this one time at band camp" or "milf"? Although the latter was only popularized by the American Pie series both have become a part of our cultural book of love (get it like the movie) . Let's not forget about Stifler, the character who became a cultural icon in his own right. His bold personality was the playbook of the frat boy stereotype, he paved way for young males across the nation to fit this mold and follow his antics, his disciples are often referred to as "little stiffys" around the globe.
It wasn't just the characters and catchphrases that made American Pie such a cultural phenomenon. It was the life lessons that resonated with audiences. The movie was about more than just getting laid and banging pies (although those were very critical to the plot). It was about growing up and finding your place in the world while going through absolute hell and back just to get a piece (of pie).
We can't talk about the cultural impact of American Pie without mentioning the parties. The American Pie series showed us how to throw a proper rager, with everything from kegs ,to strippers , even the Greek Olympiad. The world was due for some new ideas on how to blow off steam seeing how it had been nearly 20 years since the release of American Pies predecessor Animal House.
And let's not forget about the music. The American Pie soundtracks were filled with classic rock and pop hits that we still listen to today. Who doesn't get a little nostalgic when they hear "Laid" by James or "One Week" by Barenaked Ladies?
So there you have it the cultural importance of the American Pie series. It may be past it's prime, but it was a major part of my generation's development into who we are today. Who knows, maybe someday we'll look back on fondly in the nursing home as you stop and turn to your grandchildren and mutter out the phrase.
-"This one time at band camp"
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