When I found a good friend reading the Shopaholic books, by Sophie Kinsella, at the beach a couple of summers ago, I had absolutely no interest in them. Being anything but a shopping addict, the title completely turned me off. I was reading Snow Flower and the Secret Fan (a fantastic book, by the way), by Lisa See, at the time, and was trying to seek out books that would be meaningful.
Why was my friend raving about these books? She seemed so relaxed on the beach reading them. It reminded me of when I used to read books by Mary Higgins Clark and Danielle Steel. Part of me was missing reading just for the fun and relaxation of it. There's definitely something to be said for escapism, especially at the beach. Why should we always have to think so deeply? We all need a break once in a while.
Well, I still probably will never read that particular book series, but I decided to give the movie a try when it came out in theaters. While many people thought the movie was silly, I found it refreshing to be able to watch something that was not deep, dark, violent, and depressing for a change. All too many movies are all too real these days. Can't we go to a movie to escape from reality once in a while?
Well, this film just happened to have come out on DVD yesterday, so I watched it again with my daughter last night. As we were watching it, I realized that Confessions of a Shopaholic is a lot more "real" than I previously thought. I started to realize that there actually are many life lessons that can be taken away from this movie, especially by tween and teen girls. Halfway through it, I ran to grab a pen and paper.
Here's what can be learned from this movie:
- How NOT to behave during an interview. Do the opposite of what Rebecca does. Be prepared, be polite, be relevant, and always have a copy of your resume ready!
- The two pink envelopes show us how passion can bring out the best and the worst in people.
Pink Letter #1:
It's never a good idea to send mean letters, emails, or text messages to people, especially when you're angry. If you're upset with someone, wait a day or two to cool down, and then speak with that person in private.
Pink Letter #2:
Her inspired writing landed her a job, even after a disastrous interview. Even with all of this character's flaws, she does have a talent and passion for writing that makes her special and unique. If she would focus more on this "inner beauty," as opposed to just her "outer beauty," the possibilities would be endless. There wouldn't be any need for a movie, either!
- Sometimes an outside perspective can enlighten those on the "inside." Rebecca did not know much about the financial industry, but her ideas certainly caught their attention! It reminds me of one of my favorite quotes:
"We must be able to disagree and to consider new ideas and not be afraid." ~Eleanor Roosevelt
- It's never a good idea to run (or drink) away from your problems. We all make mistakes. By admitting them to ourselves and others, we can learn from them and move on.
- Limit the number of credit cards you use. Set limits, and do not spend money you do not have.
- Do not be an impulsive shopper. If you buy the first thing you see, you may end up buying inferior products that you really don't need. Exercise self-control and be more selective - you have the right and an obligation to be an informed consumer! Choose quality over quantity.
- Addiction comes in many forms, and needs to be taken seriously. Rebecca is in denial about her addiction and goes to great lengths to cover it up. It isn't until she's caught that she admits her mistake, but she does learn a big lesson in the end.
- Trust goes both ways. People have to be able to trust you, but you also have to be able to trust the people around you, as well as the companies you buy products or services from.
- Do not be afraid to make your mark on the world. If you have a passion for something, use it to create a better world for yourself and others.
- Always trust your instincts. Rebecca got a "pit in her stomach" when she was finally offered the job at the fashion magazine. The old Rebecca would never have been conflicted like that. It shows that she did learn from her mistakes, and that she now sees the value in her "inner beauty."
Toward the end of the movie, Rebecca's parents (Joan Cusack and John Goodman) regret not having educated their daughter about how to manage money. They even think about giving her a book about it! Hmmm....it's a little too late for that, don't you think? Parents can start to teach their children about finances starting in the preschool years. I will be starting a series about coins and money sometime during the next month.
While some parents will not appreciate this movie at all, I do feel that it's innocent and fun enough for tween and teen girls, and that it will make money an easier subject to address at these ages. Like I always say, sometimes calling attention to bad behavior can really be an eye opener for children. For another opinion, please look at Common Sense Media's movie review. A full review of the movie can also be found here.
It's also important to note that the Confessions of A Shopaholic book series is for more mature readers. You can find the Common Sense Media book review here
By the way, I'm sorry to say that the official site for this movie actually is promoting products. It makes me fully understand why some people are turned off by this movie. But, it can provide another lesson about the power of marketing and how people should not let themselves be "sold" by sneaky advertising.
So, can a silly, lighthearted movie be used as a teaching tool? The first time around, I may have said no. After a second viewing, though, I would say yes. Of course, it all depends on how you look at it...
What do you think?