The Breakfast Club

1985

Director: John Hughs

Distributor: Universal Pictures

Key Elements: Characters, Message, Music

My Review:

The Quintessential 80’s teen movie.

Most of us can remember the drastic lines drawn between social cliques in high school. And most of us can also remember being frustrated with the socially controlling mistreatment and dismissal accompanying these stark, artificial divisions.

The Breakfast Club shows us that we have more in common than different. Teen angst is hard to deal with no matter who we hang out with. We do better to befriend each other than to divide.

Though the music and cultural references may be specific to the 80’s (and delightfully so), the themes are universal and lasting.

Trailer:



Quotes:

• "...And these childrenthat you spit on
  as they try to change their worlds
  are immune to your consultations.
  They're quite aware
  of what they're going through..."
  David Bowie
• Dear Mr. Vernon, we accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us as you want to see us... In the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions. But what we found out is that each one of us is a brain ...and an athlete ...and a basket case...a princess...and a criminal ...Does that answer your question?... Sincerely yours, the Breakfast Club.

Stills: