As the internet has presumably informed you, Clueless celebrated its 20th anniversary over the weekend. While its remembrance caused us to feel seriously ancient, it also made for an ideal time to celebrate the iconic film in all its ’90s/teenage glory; the clothes, the music, the characters, and the lingo will forever be quintessential, and its essence will live on through cable TV, Tumblr, and Etsy shops until the end of time. Following my 258th viewing of the film a few nights ago, however, I realized that one aspect of the film simply does not receive the attention it deserves, and that aspect is the A+ characterization of the charming and adorable skater Travis Birkenstock.
Each of the Beverly Hills teens were likable (and possibly unlikable) in their own way, but there was something genuinely special about Travis. He was arguably the nicest and least shallow character, and he just seemed like a great dude to be around. Plus, he was like, so cute. So without further ado, let’s talk about why Mr. Birkenstock deserves more credit.
In a sea of high-end designer labels and trends, Travis shined with his authentic style.
Everyone had their own, recognizable way of dress (except for that copy-cat, Amber) but Travis’s was the best. So grungy, so ’90s. And I mean, why wear dress clothes and uncomfortable shoes when you can don suspenders and a bow tie?!
He was oh-so thoughtful.
When Travis decided to leave his stoner days behind, he made sure that his devices didn’t go to waste. I guess this means he cares about the environment, too?
Travis was all about having a good time…
…And he made sure everyone around him had a good time, too.
We’ve all been there. Partying in an important new outfit and someone spills their drink all over you. Ugh, the worst. Most of these people — especially back in high school — awkwardly apologize and/or offer to get you a napkin or whatever useless thing they find in the kitchen, but not Travis. Travis came through with *some chronic shit.* Cher’s situation remained so not fixable but at least she got a buzz.
He’s a dude who’s not afraid to compliment a girl, and he uses the word ‘cute.’
Travis immediately gets Tai’s attention by complimenting her Marvin the Martian doodles, and even exclaims, “That’s so cute!” while going through her notebook pages. Awwwww.
No grudges are held by Travis.
Tai wasn’t exactly nice to Travis once she gained popularity, and even allowed her friends to embarrass him, which was so not cool. But he forgave and forgot because *duh* he’s an excellent person.
His general outlook on life is superb.
Honestly, did Travis ever seem like he was in a bad mood?
The fact that he skated meant he was in good shape. Plus, it’s hawt.
Aside from Travis — and Cher and Tai’s brief viewing of and participation in Buns of Steel — no one in this movie actually did anything in terms of physical exercise. So he was clearly the most physically fit, and he looked extra good with his skateboard. BONUS: He shared this picture to celebrate.
LASTLY, THAT SMILE.
JUST LOOK AT HIM.
#boyfriendgoals
Fangirling by Nicole Woszcyzna. Follow her on Twitter @nicolewosz.
