it's a moral imperative.

I've just been reminded of a Halloween party a couple of years ago - this one, hosted by Joe and Jenn, had an eighties theme, complete with a polaroid photo yearbook being assembled on the wall as people arrived. The idea piqued a lot of people's interest and creativity, but it took a few weeks for my obvious costume choice to became clear. In my case, it based on a nickname I'd had in years past, from the days when I had long hair, studied physics, and lived in a corner room on campus.

Just prior to the event, Joe and I were discussing the upcoming party, and he had a concept he obviously was proud of, as well. We smugly dropped each other hints.

Then paused.

Then realized that we had picked the same movie: Joe was planning on impersonating Chris Knight from Real Genius, and I had zeroed in on Lazlo Hollyfeld. (Joe's costume featured an "I heart toxic waste" shirt; mine included a large tray full of envelopes and a wig). Somehow both of those character choices still seem perfect.