Ten Movie Moments That Killed the American Suburb

Tal Pinchevsky  Jul 02, 2009 10:35 am

Ten Movie Moments That Killed the American Suburb
 
How Hollywood crushed the American dream -- one film at a time.
 

 

If you’re like us, then you know that 4th of July fireworks aren’t always confined to the skies. Given the hot dogs, beer, and suburban angst, it’s the holiday most likely to see a major family blow-up.

We’re only now realizing that the problem might not be America’s independence, but suburbia’s downward spiral. Long considered a safe, pleasant escape from the rigors of big-city living, the devolution of these little communities -- and any accompanying holiday outbursts -- have been documented in film for over 3 decades. Over time, that characterization has gone from trouble in paradise to paradise lost.

Even if you think reports of the death of suburbia have been greatly exaggerated, there’s no denying it's inspired some unforgettable onscreen moments. Here are 10 of the best.

Enjoy it -- we’ll be in the hammock hoarding Bud Lights and hating our parents.

Happy 4th, everyone!
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Comments (9) See All Comments »
07-05-2009, 10:02 pm
If that ever happens, in all likelihood, it will be caused by a practical reason such as the high cost of energy or transportation associated with the commute too and from the Burbs or heating and cooling isolated single family structures rather than
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07-06-2009, 1:03 am
Once the human becomes disconnected from the earth which gave them life, they will fall for many distractions, not the least of which is the cheap entertainment hollywierd offers up. A beer, the game, a video, a trip to the mall, how easy it was f
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07-06-2009, 11:58 am
Johm got it right with hollywierd. These movies are works of fiction and have nothing to do with anywhere I have ever seen in the REAL world.
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07-06-2009, 10:36 pm
Great list - how about Who's afraid of Virginia Wolf as an honorable mention?
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08-02-2009, 1:26 pm
Missing Blue Velvet. Now that makes suburbia pretty freaky.
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