Retrorama

Hey 21st century Oranges,

Do you want to know what life was like in the 1970s, way back before God invented woman (his best one so far), and colour TV?

Well, this rare footage of video and photos from the archives, which was discovered today, on Orange Chinese New Year spring cleaning day, gives a very insightful peek into the secret lives of men in that era - how they interacted, what they did for male bonding... like swap cooking recipes, hairstylist contact numbers, shopping tips and the art of a perfect manicure. A true eye opener.

The 70s was the era of free love and peace. The word 'gay' didn't have the negative connotations which is now associated with it. Notice how comfortable these two men seem to be in each other's company, even though one is clearly topless. Back then, it was perfectly normal and socially acceptable for men to look at each other's body without feeling self conscious or harbour homophobic tendencies. It was all about brotherhood and the concept of agape (the Greek concept of love among two people without any romantic inclination).

Of mice and men (hot dang! it looks like a midget is squatting next to a giant)

Squatting seemed to be all the rage back then, as also displayed by this unknown coolie from Xiamen, China). Note also, the white opium roll-up being smoked by the young man in white top and Asics trainers (They had Asics in the 70s?). Maybe the squatting toilet even evolved from this ergonomic and comfortable stance adopted by the coolies.

Now, the modern day Asian squat has seen various transformations, with different styles to modify it, but it is very much alive and squatting. Just look around at all the Ah Bengs at the MRT stations, the bus stops and outside pubs and shopping centres.

Video rating: PG (for scenes of topless men and a Manchester United jersey)