Not Like the Movies

Album: Teenage Dream (2010)
Charted: 53
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This dreamy ode to love was co-written by Perry and Greg Wells and produced by Wells. Perry told BBC's Newsbeat that the contemplative ballad was finished just as her relationship with comedian and actor Russell Brand blossomed at the end of 2009. "I finished it with him in mind knowing that it is like the movies. He's in films and stuff so it made sense. Sometimes you're in a situation where it feels like this is the best you can get. I really do believe in true love and you should really find it."
  • The movie industry is a big deal for Perry. Her maternal aunt and uncle were screenwriter Eleanor Perry and director Frank Perry who made classic Hollywood flicks involving dysfunctional families such as Diary of a Mad Housewife. The singer has also frequently cited classic movie stars like Jane Russell and Liz Taylor as her biggest influences.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Richie McDonald of Lonestar

Richie McDonald of LonestarSongwriter Interviews

Richie talks about the impact of "Amazed," and how his 4-year-old son inspired another Lonestar hit.

Boy Bands

Boy BandsFact or Fiction

From NKOTB to 1D, how well do you know your boy bands?

Christmas Songs

Christmas SongsFact or Fiction

Rudolf, Bob Dylan and the Singing Dogs all show up in this Fact or Fiction for seasonal favorites.

Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers

Bill Medley of The Righteous BrothersSongwriter Interviews

Medley looks back on "Unchained Melody" and "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" - his huge hits from the '60s that were later revived in movies.

Music Video Director David Hogan

Music Video Director David HoganSong Writing

David talks about videos he made for Prince, Alabama, Big & Rich, Sheryl Crow, DMB, Melissa Etheridge and Sisters of Mercy.

Muhammad Ali: His Musical Legacy and the Songs he Inspired

Muhammad Ali: His Musical Legacy and the Songs he InspiredSong Writing

Before he was the champ, Ali released an album called I Am The Greatest!, but his musical influence is best heard in the songs he inspired.