A suburban Baltimore housewife’s life is upended when her husband reveals he’s been serially unfaithful and her teenage children go wayward. Then she meets a handsome stranger. . .
Polyester (1981), directed by John Waters, is a satirical comedy that parodies the melodramatic films of the 1950s, particularly those of Douglas Sirk. The story centers on Francine Fishpaw (Divine), a housewife in suburban Baltimore whose life unravels due to her family’s dysfunctions. Her husband, Elmer (David Samson), operates an adult movie theater, attracting protests from anti-pornography groups. Their children, Lu-Lu (Mink Stole) and Dexter (Ken King), engage in troubling behaviors: Lu-Lu is promiscuous and pregnant, while Dexter is the Baltimore Foot-Stomper, a serial foot fetishist. Compounding her woes is her mother, La Rue (Edith Massey), a cocaine-snorting, class-conscious snob who robs Francine and belittles her. After discovering Elmer’s affair with his secretary, Sandra Sullivan (Mary Garlington), Francine’s life spirals into alcoholism and depression. The narrative unfolds through a series of absurd and tragic events, including Lu-Lu’s abortion attempt, Dexter’s arrest, and La Rue’s violent end. Ultimately, Francine finds redemption and happiness, reconciling with her children and confronting her mother.
Upon its release, Polyester garnered attention for its innovative use of Odorama, a scratch-and-sniff card that allowed audiences to experience scents during the film. This gimmick, while novel, received mixed reactions. Critically, the film was praised for its satirical take on melodrama and its bold departure from Waters’ earlier, more transgressive works. It marked a transitional phase in Waters’ career, bridging his avant-garde beginnings with more mainstream sensibilities. Over time, Polyester has gained a cult following, appreciated for its unique blend of humor, social commentary, and homage to classic cinema.
Polyester introduced Odorama, a scratch-and-sniff card that allowed audiences to experience scents during the film. This innovative approach added a sensory dimension to the viewing experience, making it a unique event in cinema history.
The film offers a sharp satire of suburban America, exposing the underlying dysfunctions and hypocrisies of seemingly perfect families. Through exaggerated characters and situations, it critiques societal norms and expectations.
Polyester pays homage to the melodramas of the 1950s, particularly those of Douglas Sirk, by employing melodramatic storytelling and camp aesthetics. It both honors and mocks the conventions of classic cinema.
Divine delivers a standout performance as Francine Fishpaw, showcasing her versatility and comedic timing. Her portrayal adds depth and authenticity to the film’s satirical narrative.
Over time, Polyester has gained a cult following, appreciated for its unique blend of humor, social commentary, and homage to classic cinema. Its status as a cult classic makes it a must-watch for fans of unconventional cinema.
John Waters’ direction brings a distinctive flair to Polyester, blending his signature absurdity with a more mainstream sensibility. His ability to create a balance between dark humor, social critique, and heartfelt moments is one of the key elements that makes Polyester stand out.
At its heart, Polyester is about family dysfunction and the possibility of redemption. Despite the chaos and absurdity of Francine’s life, the film concludes on a hopeful note, suggesting that even the most broken families can find healing and reconciliation.
After watching Polyester, you will likely feel a mix of amusement, discomfort, and introspection. The film’s satirical and absurd humor will keep you entertained, but it will also leave you reflecting on the darker side of suburban life, family dysfunction, and societal norms.
You may feel a sense of empathy for Francine, whose journey through personal tragedy and redemption mirrors the struggles many face in real life. Her ability to find happiness despite the chaos in her life may leave you feeling hopeful about overcoming personal obstacles.
The film’s bold, unconventional approach to storytelling, combined with its over-the-top humor, will likely make you think about the ways in which film can challenge societal expectations and norms. You will also probably feel a sense of curiosity and wonder about the unique Odorama experience, which, whether successful or not, adds an unforgettable layer to the viewing.
