Long before starring as Dr. Derek Shepherd—better
known as “McDreamy” by all of his admirers—in the ABC medical drama Grey’s
Anatomy, Patrick Dempsey was stealing hearts in many of the 80s’ best romantic
comedies. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)
and Loverboy (1989) go back to my
earliest memories, subsequently leading to my craze for the decade. His roles
as Ronald Miller and Randy Bodek secured him the spot as my favorite actor of
the genre and caused me to continually search out more of his work. Although
never officially released on DVD, I lucked upon a copy of Happy Together (1989) in perfect condition on DVD-R.
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| My DVD-R copy of Happy Together (1989) |
In the role of Christopher Wooden, Dempsey stars alongside Helen Slater as Alex
(Alexandra) Page. He is an aspiring playwright and incoming college freshman, whom
by computer error is roomed on “the hill” with a girl. Annoyed with her overly
extroverted and epicurean antics, Chris seeks alternative housing. However, in
midst of their cohabitation, he starts to like and eventually falls for Alex.
Through their energetic exchanges, Chris evolves emotionally and transforms his
writing skills. But, when Alex’s pleasure-seeking personality starts to prove
too tough to handle, we discover if he can really love her and if she can
truly accept his adoration.
Watching a VHS-quality transfer of this film
created an incredibly evocative sensation. The opening music sets a transcendent
tone for the entire movie. The plot is both charming and magnetic. It takes
authentic boy-meets-girl emotions straight out of life and interjects them in a
fanciful and captivating situation. And, until the closing credits, it captures
the magic of the era and the presumed innocence of love.
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