Costume parties can be hit-and-miss—I once showed up in complete disco wear (including platform shoes) to a party wherein I was the sole participant in the night's '70s theme. Tonight's host attached clever videos offering fashion advice with the invitation to this movie-themed birthday party (one video featured a stormtrooper dressed in a bikini), and the extra effort was worth it.

There's one catch: Partyers aren't supposed to spend money on their outfits. The host is a makeshift Skeksi (from The Dark Crystal) with glowing flashlight eyes—and most of the guests are in similar handmade garb, some of which is sewn together during the party. Adolf Titler and Betty Boop (who accompanies her outfit with a lengthy history lesson) make appearances, but the most common costume for males and at least one female is the pants-free Tom Cruise character from Risky Business (Joel Goodsen for those pantsless–Tom Cruise trivia fans). recommended

The crowd slowly grows throughout the night and more costumes appear, many of which are a perfect excuse to show off as much skin as possible. I'm forced at one point to describe the ingredients that make up Tacoma's famous aroma, but luckily the band in the backyard increases the volume on the classic-rock hits they're jamming and people get distracted. A breast cake is brought in, the crowd starts to get a little bigger, and more bare legs come out—which is awesome, even when the temperature drops.

Want The Stranger to help you decide which '50s-era cartoon was the most racist at your next house party? E-mail the date, place, and party details to partycrasher@thestranger.com.