Matthew Broderick and I share a unique connection through time. He was born just four years before me, and as I navigated my youth and teenage years, he aged gracefully ahead of me, maintaining that crush-worthy charm. While I was never drawn to the typical heartthrobs of the era, Matthew stood out with his relatable nerdiness and occasional stammer, making him feel more accessible and genuine than many of his contemporaries.
Here’s a glimpse into how our lives have intertwined over the years:
War Games
My first encounter with Matthew was in the 1983 film War Games, where at 21, he played the brilliant David Lightman. At 17, I was captivated by his character’s intelligence as he inadvertently almost sparked a nuclear war. I admired his romance with Ally Sheedy’s character, who was someone I could look up to. Imagine if David had chosen chess—then we wouldn’t have had such an iconic film!
Ladyhawke
While many may have focused on the love story of Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer, my heart was set on Matthew as Philippe “The Mouse” Gaston. His portrayal of a thief turned hero who aids the cursed lovers was endearing and solidified my affection for him, even if he wasn’t the primary romantic lead.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Chronologically next was Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, though I didn’t catch it until years later when I was 20. Watching it in my late 20s felt like a surreal experience; I had grown older, yet Matthew seemed timeless. His charisma was undeniable, even when he donned a towel!
Torch Song Trilogy
In 1988, while I was 22, Matthew played Harvey Fierstein’s boyfriend in Torch Song Trilogy. The film was a moving blend of humor and emotion, and as a dramatic writing student at NYU, I appreciated every poignant moment. His performance was a delightful surprise as he skillfully stepped outside of his usual roles.
The Freshman
Perfectly timed, I was in my final year of college and The Freshman took place at NYU. Matthew’s character, Clark, mistakenly believing he’s working for a mafia boss played by Marlon Brando, led to a series of comedic moments. The inside jokes about The Godfather were particularly enjoyable for a film studies enthusiast like myself.
Election
Fast forward to 1999 when Matthew was 37 and I was 33. This time, he portrayed a teacher—a role that felt fitting as I had moved on from student life. His character had a less-than-stellar moral compass, but I still found myself drawn to him, even as he faced off against Reese Witherspoon’s formidable character.
Skipping ahead through a few less memorable films and into the realm of animation, we arrive at The Tale of Despereaux in 2008. At 46, Matthew’s voice brought joy to my children and nostalgia for me. His portrayal of a courageous little mouse captured my heart all over again.
Thank you, Matthew, for all those cherished moments. I look forward to seeing you transform as we both grow older, perhaps kindling that spark anew.
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Summary
In reflecting on my journey growing up alongside Matthew Broderick, I’ve shared how his film roles resonated with me during different stages of my life. From War Games to The Tale of Despereaux, his characters have left a lasting impact, mirroring my own growth and experiences.