Criteria for Judging Whether it's a Good Pin-Up & in What Category Does Your Idol Fall?

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I see it like this ... As for judging whether it's a good pin-up or not, it obviously depends on the subject matter.

For example, if it's a glossy, color, full-pager of Lance Kerwin, Willie Aames or Jimmy McNichol, it's automatically a bad pin-up and a waste of ink that should have probably been reserved for Donny Osmond, Leif Garrett or Erik Estrada. Toss those out, put them on the dartboard or, if you’re lucky, trade with a friend. They don’t even deserve to be categorized.

Other than that, criteria should include: the amount of clothing the subject is wearing; whether the hair is messed up or not (good for some and not for others); and whether or not the subject looks like he's aware you're going to be staring at him for at least an hour or two at a time. You’re the judge of that.

I propose three different fairly solid categorizations that should cover all teen idols (in particular, males).

“Fox:” He’s not particularly a big fellow. He may even be shorter than you, and most likely is. None-the-less, he’s cute, seems to have a great sense of humor and the hair is perfect. Examples include Ralph Macchio, Scott Baio, Michael J. Fox, etc.  He’d be great to hang around with, but more in a brother-like way or your friend at school who is probably gay.
“Hunk:” This is not a boy you’re looking at here. This is a grown man, complete with muscle mass. Your mom would definitely approve, but your dad certainly would not. He’s gotta be at least 20, maybe even 30. He might have hair on his chest and let you see it. You know this guy could teach you a thing or two. Examples include Brett Hudson, Erik Estrada, Richard Hatch, James Brolin, and possibly, Parker Stevenson, although the committee’s still out. Robert Redford doesn’t qualify. He’s just plain old.
“Pretty Boy:” This is the one who is prettier than you. If you walk through the mall with him, guys whistle, but not at you. You don’t admit to anyone other than your mother you have a secret “thing” for this guy. You tear out the pin-up, but you don’t dare hang it in your locker where others might see. Examples include Peter Frampton, Rick Springfield (the early days), Leif Garrett and Peter Barton. See also: Every single Bay City Roller (not limited to the original five).

I think that about sums it up. Please feel free to introduce your own proposals. That is all.

17:21 03/14/2011