Billy Jean King and Bobby Riggs, David and Goliath, Batman and Superman… History – and popular culture – is littered with larger than life contests, the blockbuster battles to decide who, ultimately, will reign supreme in the world of sport, the Valley of Elah and the twin comic book cities of Metropolis and Gotham.
But is this the biggest battle of them all? A popular culture clash that goes to the heart of what it means to be American?
Look, we certainly think so.
It comes down to thus: whose Halloween costumes are better – German supermodel Heidi Klum, or 74-year-old cinematic legend and archetype of modern masculinity Harrison Ford?
Klum, who hosts an annual spooky soiree in New York (she used to co-host with her ex-husband Seal), certainly goes above and beyond when it comes to costuming. Points must be awarded for dedication, with Klum giving over her famous face and physique for altering prosthetics (Jessica Rabbit, 2015), ageing makeup and a gray wig (2013) or a full body catsuit (2007).
But there’s something to be said for Harrison’s general disdain for life, the universe and the tradition of Halloween… all while dressed in the most outrageous dad-humour costumes seen this side of 50th birthdays at the local RSL.
Ford, who adheres to Halloween with his wife Calista Flockhart and their young son in their Los Angeles neighbourhood, has been seen in a booze-swilling, smoking nun outfit, as a peapod complete with green face paint, an an ageing rockstar and his groupie, as a geeky chess club couple and as a giant hot-dog.
It’s a close contest, that’s for sure. But we think we might be in love with Ford (and his costumes). And we’re pretty sure he knows.
