If you’re an offbeat kinda gal, with a witty sense of humour and knack for saying strange things, then your favourite films probably feature quirky leading ladies. You take notes while you watch movies such as Sixteen Candles to learn exactly what eccentric qualities Molly Ringwald possesses and that ultimately bag her the local hunk. These characters, whose quirkiness turn out to be their most prized possession and their best cool dude bait, inspire us – the unconventional – to put our eccentricities on display, never stifle our wackiness, and to always be ourselves. Here are some truly odd tactics that our favourite quirky girls have done. 

This movie archetype is often referred to as a Manic Pixie Dream Girl. The term tends to have a negative connotation surrounding it, as these characters are sometimes  described as “shallow” and only there to serve the purpose of livening up the lead male’s life. However, Clementine from Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind puts the true meaning of the role another way, “Too many guys think I’m a concept, or I complete them, or I’m gonna make them alive. But I’m just a f*****-up girl who’s lookin’ for my own peace of mind; don’t assign me yours.” Our thoughts exactly Clementine. 

Sam – Garden State

One of the ultimate quirky girls is Natalie Portman’s character Sam, from the film Garden State. This is by far one of the sweetest and most endearing movies ever. The best part about the story is that Sam’s zany ways are definitely what entrance her man. Quirky ladies: Do what Sam does – something completely unique, that no one else in the world is doing at that moment, most likely a very strange, invented dance move accompanied by an even stranger sound – and show your crush that you’re a one of a kind, original. If they’re freaked out, they ain’t worth it honey.

Frances – Frances Ha

Never have I related to a quirky girl more than Frances Ha. I would say that in spite of her  extreme quirks of character, she still thrives. Also, despite being deemed *undateable*, she still manages to charm someone into crushing on her. Quirky Ladies: Do as Frances does, and pirouette through the streets. Not only will this be a great work out, but it will cheer you and those around you up by expressing your zeal for life!

Clementine – Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Clementine Kruczynski is probably the most complete example of a MPDG, especially in the sense that her character actually is kind of malleable to the whims of her main squeeze, though this is just a necessary component to the surrealist plot. Clementine is eccentric (sporting varying hues of dyed hair throughout the film), and outspoken, just like any quirky girl should be. Quirky Ladies: Follow in the footsteps of Clementine and strive for her spontaneity. If you’re inspired to play hooky (once in a blue moon), grab your crush and hop on a train to somewhere different for a change of scenery.

Queen of Quirk – Amélie

There is no one quirkier in the world of film than Amélie Poulain. A sweet and mild-mannered Parisienne who completely tops the charts in terms of her idiosyncrasies. Constantly escaping to her bizarre train of thought – we are provided with the inner workings of such an unusual and whimsical mind. Quirky Ladies: Do as Amélie does – resist the urge to be totally introverted and avoid your crush. If this is too tricky to do right away then ease yourself into it with careful observations about said crush (no – do not stalk them), so you can plot the perfect meet-cute.