If you love Bridgerton’s Polin, the dynamic between Colin and Penelope, you’ll be thrilled to find that their friends-to-lovers storyline has a cinematic blueprint in a classic ’80s film. As Bridgerton Season 3 breaks records and captivates audiences with over 45 million views in its first week, it’s clear that fans are eager to see Colin and Penelope’s romance unfold. While we wait for more episodes, there’s an iconic ’80s romance that perfectly captures the essence of Polin’s journey. Let’s dive into how “Some Kind of Wonderful” by John Hughes mirrors the beloved Bridgerton couple’s story.
The Magic of the Friends-to-Lovers Trope
Polin has become the quintessential example of the friends-to-lovers narrative, a dynamic that’s incredibly satisfying to watch unfold. Some Kind of Wonderful exemplifies this trope perfectly. Much like Penelope’s unrequited feelings and Colin’s obliviousness, the main characters of this ’80s teen romantic drama share a similar journey. The film, which serves as a reimagining of Pretty in Pink (1986), showcases how the underdog can eventually become “the one,” ending in a gratifying happy ending.
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What Is ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ About?
Some Kind of Wonderful is a romantic teen comedy-drama set in a suburban American town. The film follows Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz), who has been best friends with tomboy drummer Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson) since childhood. Keith, however, has a long-standing crush on the most popular girl in school, Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson). Despite Amanda’s charm and beauty, her rich boyfriend Hardy Jenns (Craig Sheffer) does not appreciate her. When Amanda finds Hardy cheating, Keith steps in and asks her out, sparking a series of events that lead to a heartwarming conclusion.
The Parallels Between Polin and Keith and Watts
In both Bridgerton and Some Kind of Wonderful, the female leads—Penelope and Watts—are not seen as traditionally beautiful but possess undeniable charm. Both characters are not the first choice for their male counterparts and are viewed as outsiders. Penelope and Watts put their friends’ happiness before their own, even as they silently yearn for something more. This makes their eventual romantic success all the more satisfying for viewers who love Bridgerton’s Polin.
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The Influence of John Hughes on Romantic Narratives
John Hughes is celebrated for his authentic portrayals of teenage life, with films like The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off cementing his legacy. Some Kind of Wonderful is another gem from Hughes, reflecting his desire for a story where true love prevails. The original ending of Pretty in Pink, which saw the best friends ending up together, was scrapped due to negative audience reactions. Hughes made sure that Some Kind of Wonderful stayed true to his vision, making it a perfect parallel for fans who love Bridgerton’s Polin.
Why ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ Is a Must-Watch for Polin Fans on Reddit
Some Kind of Wonderful paved the way for many friends-to-lovers stories on screen. In Bridgerton, Colin and Penelope’s friendship sets the foundation for their romantic relationship, mirroring Keith and Watts’ journey. The film offers a similar narrative where characters must look beyond their friendship to discover a deeper, magical connection. For audiences who love Bridgerton’s Polin, Some Kind of Wonderful provides another beautiful exploration of friends becoming lovers after years of denial.
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Conclusion
If you love Bridgerton’s Polin, “Some Kind of Wonderful” is a must-watch. This ’80s classic provides a perfect parallel to Colin and Penelope’s friends-to-lovers journey, showcasing the timeless appeal of such narratives. Both stories highlight the beauty of realizing that the person who has always been by your side is the one you truly love. As we eagerly await more of Polin’s story in Bridgerton, “Some Kind of Wonderful” offers a satisfying and heartwarming experience for fans of this beloved trope.
