And we wore purple

It was the battle with our parents that would be the deterrent.

Once we heard that it would be opening in theaters and screening in our little twin peaks-like town, the petitioning to our parents commenced. We both knew that it wouldn't be an easy task but agreed the word "NO" wouldn't stop us! If necessary, we'd pull our first teenage rebellion escapade and run away -- just for a couple hours though-- in order to sneak into the movie theater. Jen and I wanted it THAT badly.

Life was different back then, and both our parents were sternly conservative about their little girls watching such a movie without chaperones. At thirteen, our power of persuasion must have paid off or was it our constant begging? I don't quite remember, but I do remember Jen's parents caved in first which inevitably changed my mom's mind to say yes. A BIG Yes!

The anticipation built with each day that moved closer to that notorious Friday. At school, we bragged to anyone that would listen that our parents gave us permission to go unsupervised. And, at night, we were on the phone blabbering about it to each other. We were just so damn stoked!

Finally, our day to see Prince's Purple Rain had arrived...

My mom dropped us off that summer night with strict instructions about being out by ourselves. I didn't really listen though not because it was my mom nagging, but more because I was astonished by the crowd outside the theater. We were allowed to go to the 7pm showing and would be lucky to get tickets with so many people lined around the city block. So, I gave Mom a quick kiss and secured our spot in line while Jen was still getting out of the car.

The convoy of avid fans slowly moved one step closer to that glass doore door that would surely cure my teenage anticipation. I've always felt proud of being a child of the infamous 80s and remembering back to that long line instantly gives me a warm fuzzy.

After moving like a sluggish herd of cattle, Jen and I finally rounded the corner to see the theater door. I remember we both shrieked and jumped around like a bunch of dorks wearing purple shirts. Then, one step forward, and we were at the ticket counter. FINALLY!

To our dismay the old couple (who probably were my age now.. but seemed old.. sigh) in front of us purchased the last two tickets for the 7pm showing. It was like someone sucker punched me right in the stomach as I gasped for air. Quick decision time¦. what should we do? Do we buy the tickets for the 9 o'clock show even though our parents will say NO? Or, do we go use the pay phone around the corner and ask for permission before getting back in line? Yes, the convenience of a cell phone back then would have helped Instead, we stood like there like two scared puppies.

Do it, Jen. "Buy them!" I screeched without thinking of the sure consequences.

So, she did, and we quickly stepped away from the rest of the disappointed crowd. Now, what the heck are we going to do?

At this point, it was time to call the parents and let them know what happened. Into the phone booth I went, since my mom had seen the mass of people and would hopefully understand the situation. She indeed understood that we couldn't get tickets, but damn was she pissed that I had Jen buy tickets for the late showing without asking her first. After several minutes of listening to her scream and taking the punches, she calmed down and granted me permission to wait. I asked her to call Jen's parents and explain. That was a dumb request on my part and prompted her to start lecturing me again. I finally hung up and was relieved. The anticipation of the movie began to light me up again until I realized Jen had yet to persuade her folks.

I remember Jen having an easier time on the phone except she obligated herself to babysitting her siblings the next day as punishment. Poor girl!

Back to the line we went. It was much smaller this time, and we were sure to get a decent seat for the next movie. After sitting there for what seemed like an eternity, it was our time and up to the balcony we ran like kids after an ice cream truck!

Was it worth it?

I learned invaluable lessons that day which helped in my teenage years despite the torture it would place on my parents--- persistence we'll eventually get me what i want with my parents and sometimes, it's better to beg for forgiveness later than to ask for permission in the beginning. Plus, I wouldn't trade that memory for the world!

Over twenty years ago, I loved Purple Rain, although it was pretty lame as far as plot and acting. Jen and I were blown away during the Darling Nikki scene though. Talk about some arousing lyrics and Prince's live performance during that part of the show was just smoking HOT to a young girl.

Plus, it was the first time that I'd witnessed any movie with semi-sexual content. I can see why our parents were apprehensive about us watching it especially when Prince (the kid) cops a feel down under in Appollonia's panties. Wow!

Truth be told, I watch Purple Rain a couple times a year now just to go back in time and relish in my memory of standing in that line. As an adult, I laugh at certain scenes especially at Apollonia's atrocious singing and watching Morris Day in action. It's a great nostalgic trip although my own children don't find it too fascinating.

That thirteen year old glued to her seat was really impressed with the movie and couldn't wait to buy the soundtrack. The music on that album still kicks ass today and is in my opinion, Prince's finest work.