Rant: Term "Chick Flick" is a non-starter

The other day I was asked if I thought that a particular movie was a "Chick Flick". After deciding that I both:

a) Liked the movie and

b) Was engendered with non-chick anatomical apparatus,

I decided to take a critical look at the term itself.

I am not one to go overboard on Political Correctness (particularly if the goal is humor/satire). I don't have a problem with words like "mankind" being used to refer to both men and women (and doubt that I would, were I a woman). However, the term "Chick Flick" bothers me. The problem I have with "Chick Flick" is that it is said in all seriousness, and normally implies a negative connotation. The other problem I have with the term is that it is gender-based which strikes at the core of our beings' identities. Most women would be insulted to be told that they "walk like a guy". Most guys would consider it an insult to be told they "throw like a girl". Most of us have an innate desire to be identified with the proper gender. That more women are not insulted by the term is only an indication of how many have actually "bought into" it's misogynist premise. So I believe that the term is derogatory not only to women, but men.

We all, to a greater or lesser degree, use labels in an attempt to create some semblance of order from an existence filled with infinite variety. However, as we mature we should begin to see the world less in terms that are "black" or "white". Discernment is the ability to see the shades of gray that exist in between. "Chick Flick" is a term that is "black" or "white". It is a gauntlet thrown down before someone of the male gender. You can't like this movie, or you aren't one of "us". This is a subtle form of psychological terrorism (otherwise known as "peer pressure").

I, for one, object to having anyone's definitions rammed down my throat. What is the "real" definition for a "Chick Flick"? One that has women as the central character(s)? One that deals with "relationships"? A movie that elicits an emotional response? A movie set in a different time period of history? One that doesn't have flaming car crash scenes or bullets and blood flying?

I refuse to be painted as a traitor to my gender if I happen derive entertainment value from a film that contains something other than bathroom humor, violence, fast cars or a titillating amount of unfettered flesh. I happen to enjoy the way a filmmaker or director can subtly make his point with a visual metaphor and I am much more appreciative of good acting than I am a good gunfight.

I urge everyone to reconsider their use of the term "Chick Flick". You may know what you mean, but that doesn't mean that anyone else does. Elucidate your opinion in more precise terms. And I urge the guys of this world not to fence themselves off from the movies that others may label "Chick Flicks". You will only be cheating yourself and further narrowing your horizons. Besides, guys, it will make a great trading token the next time you want to take your date to a "manly" movie like "Dude, Where's My Car?"