Like The Movies
Laufey
Chasing Cinematic Romance: The Dream vs. Reality in Laufey's 'Like The Movies'
Laufey's song 'Like The Movies' is a poignant reflection on the disparity between the romantic ideals often portrayed in films and the reality of love and relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who longs for a love story that mirrors the perfection seen on the silver screen. The opening lines set a whimsical scene where the protagonist imagines a serendipitous meeting with a love interest in a bookstore, a common trope in romantic movies. The imagery of sneaking into bars, gazing at stars, and dancing under stormy skies evokes a sense of adventure and romance that is often idealized in cinematic narratives.
The chorus reveals the crux of the song's message: the protagonist's exposure to fairytales and movies has shaped their expectations of love to be unattainably high. This realization brings a sense of self-awareness, as the singer acknowledges that their quest for a perfect love story has left them perpetually disappointed. The repeated lines 'Maybe I'm just old fashioned / Read too many fairytales' suggest a yearning for simpler times when love seemed more straightforward and magical. However, the admission 'That's why I'll never fall in love' indicates a resignation to the idea that real love cannot compete with the fantasies created by the movies.
Laufey's musical style often incorporates elements of jazz and pop, with a touch of vintage charm that complements the nostalgic theme of 'Like The Movies.' The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt disillusioned by the reality of modern dating and relationships, contrasting sharply with the idealized love stories we consume through media. It's a bittersweet ode to the dreamers who hold out hope for a love as grand as the movies, while grappling with the understanding that life is rarely as picture-perfect.