I keep trying to find ways to introduce this book. All of them are depressing reflections on the ways my life has changed during the pandemic (no more quiet time, whether I like it or not). I have struggled to balance the emotional and physical drain of daily life with activities that energize, allow my brain and body to rest, and make me laugh.

This book book did all of those things.

Yes, as the title suggests, it is completely full of profanity. Typically, I steer away from that type of content, but Lindy West is just such a wonderful, witty, and real human being that reading her work was a joy even though it was full of swears. I can’t even hold it against her.

#$%t, Actually dedicates a chapter each to popular movies, mostly from the 90’s and early 2000’s. This means if you’re of a certain age, you probably saw many of these: Think Jurassic Park, Top Gun, Titanic, etc.

Each movie is rated against The Fugitive, which she rates 13/10 DVD’s of The Fugitive. This satisfyingly self-referential and qualitative ratings system uses a variety of factors, including plot (or lack thereof), acting, dialogue, etc., to determine how each movie fares.

West searingly holds the movies up to today’s societal standards. Did a movie not age well because of its ideas about race or the treatment of women? Is a director or actor a terrible person IRL? West lets them have it, while still pointing out the great parts of the movie, if there were any. Some chapters are roast from start to finish.

#$%t, Actually made me laugh out loud. It gave me a list of movies I want to go back and watch again, or watch for the first time (I’ll try anything West rated 7+/10 DVD’s of The Fugitive.) The Chaplain and I have already watched Rush Hour, which I fully enjoyed knowing ahead of time where the movie succeeded and where it failed.

West may write about old movies, but makes the work feel current with her sharp, wise voice. I already have another one of her books on my to-read pile.