As If!: The Oral History of Clueless as told by Amy Heckerling and the Cast and Crew

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Celebrate the timeless charm of Clueless with this essential read packed with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories from Amy Heckerling, Alicia Silverstone, Paul Rudd, and more, plus a deep-dive into 90s fashion, Brittany Murphys unforgettable legacy, and the lasting cultural impact of this classic comedy.

Will we ever get tired of Clueless Ugh, as if!

Acclaimed pop culture journalist Jen Chaney celebrates the 20th anniversary of the classic films release in the first book of its kind, weaving together original interviews with writer and director Amy Heckerling; key cast members, including Alicia Silverstone (Cher), Paul Rudd (Josh), Stacey Dash (Dionne), Donald Faison (Murray), Elisa Donovan (Amber), Wallace Shawn (Mr. Hall), Twink Caplan (Ms. Geist and associate producer); and other crucial Clueless players like costume designer Mona May, casting director Marcia Ross, director of photography Bill Pope, former Paramount chairwoman Sherry Lansing, and many more. Cast and crew also pay heartfelt tribute to the late Brittany Murphy, who lit up the screen as Chers protge, Tai.

Chaney explores the influence of Jane Austens Emma as the unlikely framework for Heckerlings script, the rigorous casting process (including the future stars who didnt make the cut), the functional yet fashion-forward wardrobe, the unique slang that drew from the past and coined new phrases for the future, the sun-drenched soundtrack that set the tone, andabove allthe massive amount of work, creativity, and craft that went into making Clueless look so effortlessly bright and glossy.

As If! illuminates why plaid skirts and knee socks will never go out of style, and why Clueless remains one of the most beloved comedies of all time.

Reviews

"It's one of those books we needed without realizing it: an oral history of the making of Clueless. . . . A treat for fans." * People *
For its 20th birthday, the 90s classic Clueless gets a hilariousand comprehensiveoral history. * Entertainment Weekly (Must List selection) *
"Chaneys homage does not disappoint. . . . [She] weaves a glittery web, one thats hard to walk away from once youre drawn in. . . . For us middle-aged Gen X-ers and our adolescent offspring who still watch Clueless at sleepovers, As If! is a must. In fact, its phat! Which is high praise, indeed." * Washington Post *
In As If!, everyone involved with the picture is interviewed, giving fans a window into how the movie became a classic. * New York Post *
[Chaney] seems to have gotten just about everyone involved in Clueless to talk to her about the making of the movie. . . . The behind-the-scenes memories will thrill those who loved the movie, and Chaney makes a good case for its enduring influence. * Boston Globe *
"This book is a must-read for every girl who ever considered buying a white Jeep in honor of Cher Horowitz." * The Zoe Report *
"Chaney expertly peppers juicy details about the film's making . . . with honest celebrity insights." * Flavorpill *
"Packed with awesome behind-the-scenes shots, old-fashioned Polaroids, and every factoid you'll ever need to know, the book should be a bible for 'Clueless' trivia contestants and uber-fans everywhere." * Refinery29 *
Chaney rounded up the cast, crew and other crucial Clueless players to spill behind-the-scenes secrets about the movie. All the juicy stories are in her new book. * Metro *

Author Bio

Jen Chaney has been a journalist for twenty years and has spent much of that time writing about movies, television, and popular culture. She currently writes reviews, feature stories, essays, and TV analyses for numerous publications, including New York magazine, The Washington Post, Esquire, Salon, and Yahoo.com. Chaney is a graduate of the College of William & Mary, and lives with her husband, son, and beagle just outside of Washington, DC.