Reviews (213)

2 thumbs down
I found John Hughes' 1985 movie The Breakfast Club to be an extremely generalized, heavy handed, piece of trite filmmaking that may or may not have been relevant to teenagers fifteen years ago, but is certainly nowhere near on target now.
Obviously it was by design that his five main characters were one-dimensional character sketches of so-called 'traditional' high school stereotypes. You have Andy the jock (Emilio Estevez), Claire the princess (Molly Ringwald, a John Hughes staple), Bender the criminal (Judd Nelson), Brian the nerd (Anthony Michael Hall), and Allison the basket case (Ally Sheedy). In my opinion, for Hughes to insinuate that these five people come from completely different backgrounds and had absolutely no contact with each other or anyone else from their particular 'type' during school is just plain silly. For example, it is quite likely that Claire and Andy, being popular people, would know each other, or at least that princesses and jocks would interact on a regular basis. Same thing goes for Bender and Allison as social outcasts. Only Brian, being the brain, would logically be shunned by all other classes.
For another thing, these categories have little relevance today because in today's modern society, and indeed this has always been true, teens simply cannot be categorized and labeled, even by their peers, in this manner. I myself saw elements of my personality in every one of the characters, and neither I nor anyone I know would fit neatly into these stereotypes.
The last thing I'm going to gripe about in this review is, logically enough, the ending. For a film that tried so hard to be edgy, the denouement was awfully hackneyed and predictable. Four out of the five characters hook up at the end? Gosh, I never saw that coming! Also, the treatment of Allison was laughable. This girl has serious psychological issues that have been with her all her life, but all she needs is a little makeup, a nice dress, and a clean-cut boyfriend to set her to rights? I don't think so, pal. Willful suspension of disbelief is all fine and good, but to trivialize Allison's pain and emotional trauma in this manner is irresponsible and does a disservice to those young people who do identify with her character. I think that's enough bashing for this film; while it had its moments, it certainly is by no means the 'classic' that it is reputed to be.

One for the ages
This movie is a classic and it will stand the test of time. This is the second "teen coming of age" installment from John Hues, and round 2 for Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall. The first installment, Sixteen Candles, was more of a sexual coming of age movie whereas The Breakfast Club is more of a coming of age for one's character and social awareness. Where they are "teetering" with; do they stay with the social allegiances of their perspective pack, or do they listen to that inner voice...the voice of reason, maturity and human compassion that's not bound to any "click". I also like the choice of actors here; I think they all fit like pieces in a puzzle and make their characters totally believable. I am in the same age range as almost the entire cast and I was a senior in High school when this film came out. Allot of reviews seem to put this film within the Junior High crowd but I feel it's much more mature than that. The very message that it's trying to get across isn't understood in real life until we get close to 18 or so. The story is simple; 5 kids have to come into school on a Saturday for detention. At first they try to segregate themselves according to their school social standings. Inevitably they find out that they are more alike than they ever thought. The movie, in my eyes, is broken into 3 parts; the first part is pure character development. This is where you (the viewer) get to know each person they way they are supposed to be seen with their everyday face. At first, they act the way they think they should act, and stand up for what they always had, with out question or defiance. They stay true to their cause never steering away for a second. The second part of the film is where the movie itself develops. These 5 separate entities realize that they are variations of the same person. They have the same desires and anguishes. Their pressures and stresses are the same even though it's generated from very different sources.
The jock (Emilio Estevez) has the pressure to be on top of his sport (wrestling). In return for this he gets attention from his dad, coaches and keeps his standing within his social group. This is his priority in life and he doesn't stray.
The Princess (Molly Ringwald) has to conform and obey the rules of her social group in order to be accepted and keep her standing within the group. She keeps her eyes closed; mouth shut and goes along for the ride.
The Metal Head/criminal (Judd Nelson) is an angry guy! He wears the physical and mental scars of growing up in an abusive house. He hates most people, like the ones Emilio and Molly play, because in his eyes, they have had a free ticket and earned nothing...things are handed to them because of their social and/or economical standings. On the other hand, he feels that he's on a whole other plain because his eyes have been beaten open and he was forced to grow up a little faster than he wanted too or was ready too. I feel that Judd Nelson's character is the most crucial to the movie. He is the key to this whole new self-awareness for everyone, including himself.
The nerd (Anthony Michael Hall) is the quintessential geek. His every woken moment is spent learning. He hides behind his grades and in fact, he wants to be more accepted by the "cooler" groups. He also is a little "cocky" about his better grades and academically superiority to the other people in the room.
The weirdo (Ally Sheedy) is a loner and an outcast. She doesn't have friends that we (the viewers) know of. Because her parents ignore her, She feels ugly and without a place in the world. She is starving for positive attention. I think her character was needed in this movie to balance off the cast. It would have left out a very critical part of teen angst!
Richard Vernon (Paul Gleason) is the "Villain" of the movie. To the kids, he represents the out of touch older generation and the mean spirited, high testosterone adult. For Richard Vernon, these kids are the source of his anger and agony. He has lost touch with the younger generation for 1 reason, he got older...and the older you get, the harder it is to relate to youth. Youth recycles right before your eyes, but you keep getting older. His character is the key that releases these kids. He helps them to strip away the blindfolds and to take a fresh look at every thing and everyone (including themselves).

This leads to the 3rd and final part of the movie. Where they cleanse themselves of all the pentad up anger and prejudices. When the kids realize that they all have the same goal, they were just taking different roads to reach it. I highly recommend The Breakfast Club and it should go down as one of the all time great teenage movie!

A little time - a little perspective
I first saw this movie at a cinema in Austin in March, 1985. Just a year out of high school, I thought this was a deep, moving motion picture with a quality cast that really showed the feelings of different groups of students in schools. I could relate to the characters.

Move forward more than 19 years. This movie has not aged well. I read on the IMDB that John Hughes wrote this script in two days. After watching this movie again, I find that very easy to believe. It is horrible! - and this coming from a man who loves all things 80's! Was Judd Nelson about 35 when he made that movie? He looks about 20 years older than Anthony Michael Hall. Unbelievable characters and dialogue. Then they tie it up nice and neat at the end - with 2 unlikely couples pairing off leading us to believe there's no social caste in high schools.

With the small cast and lack of location shots, I'm amazed that I've never read about some high school drama club doing a stage production of this disaster. In any case, I've got a Breakfast Club DVD I'll never watch again - I'll post it used "New & Used" above.

Still relevant after all these years
Some question the durability of "The Breakfast Club," saying that the themes and plotlines do not hold up in today's teen society. As a 15-year-old, I would like to say that that is thoroughly untrue. 19 years after its release, "The Breakfast Club" is still a truthful, relateable account of teenagers and their personalities, and the ways in which they interact with each other. Sure, the stereotypes of the characters may be a bit exaggerated -- but that's necessary in order to get the point across. Watching this movie, I feel as if I know these people, or at least I've run across them at one point in my high school career.

The plot, as most people know, involves five different kids being assigned Saturday detention together. Each kid represents a typical high school stereotype -- a princess (Molly Ringwald), a jock (Emilio Estevez), a brain (Anthony Michael Hall), a basket case (the excellent Ally Sheedy), and a criminal (Judd Nelson). At the beginning of the day, none of them know each other, except for the princess and the jock. Throughout the day, they learn more about each other and work at tearing down the stereotypes that pit them against each other. As for the reviewer who said this isn't realistic that they would open up so much to each other -- it absolutely is. Put five kids into a room without an adult for nine hours, and they will talk about anything.

The beauty of this movie is the depth of the characters beyond the stereotypes -- particularly the nerd, Brian, who as we find out in the movie has problems well beyond what people think of him. He is the one that I most relate to in the movie. Watch "The Breakfast Club," and see who you most relate to. It's a great experience. Beyond the social commentary aspect, it's also just a funny movie. The jokes come at breakneck speed, especially for the first half of the movie (before it gets somewhat serious). The actors are also very enjoyable in their roles, particularly Ally Sheedy and Anthony Michael Hall. Highly recommended.

Must have to any collection.
The quintessential John Hughes film. I remember in my English class my junior year (1987) we had to analyze this movie. Only 2 years after it's release it was had all the qualities needed for a class analysis. I will spare you the report that I did back then.

Since then I have watched this movie at least once a year (and contrary to popular believe it is not for the panty shot). The characters are very well done. There is something that anyone who went through high school can relate to, even if we fit more than just one character. The interactions between the teens towards each other and then towards the principal as a group is classic. It's got love, teen angst, popular kids, geeks, dweebs, outcasts and the ever popular kid that doesn't fit in but always tries to get the attention. Nothing like dumping out your bag for people to go through to get attention.

Of course you can't forget the star cast of strong 80's actors, Emilio Estevez (Andrew 'Andy') Anthony Michael Hall (Brian) Judd Nelson (John Bender) Molly Ringwald (Claire) Ally Sheedy (Allison) and Paul Gleason (Principal). Great acting, John's look at teenagers and a great script all make for a very enjoyable look at the interactions and 'attitude' typical of the high school years.

I truly could go on about this movie but I won't. I'll just say that this is a much have for any movie buff and if you haven't seen it you must. ... Read more

Reviews (129)

Classic 80's Teen movie on a very poor DVD
If you want to own this movie on DVD then you'll have to be prepared to pay an arm and a leg. It's only out on region 1, and has long since been deleted, so commands a very high price for no apparant reason other than the film itself - its certainly not for the extras - there aren't any.

The film stars 80's starlet Molly Ringwald (Breakfast Club) and Anthony John Hall (Weird Science, Breakfast Club) and also reunites them with director John Hughes, also from "The Breakfast Club". Comparisions between the two cannot be helped. Personally I prefered "The Breakfast Club" but there must be many who disagree - both are good, assuming that you like that sort of thing. High School coming-of-age movies are after all pretty much of a muchness, as the recent spoof movie "Not Another Teen Movie" so aptly illustrates.

Where both Hughes movies fall down on DVD is with the lack of extra features. "Sixteen Candles" is at least in widescreen, but that's all - there's no remastered 5.1 audio mix, no subtitles, no trailer, no cast biographies, no featurettes, no commentaries, no nothing. And if the other reviewers are to be believed then the music on the DVD isn't even the original soundtrack, supposedly due to rights issues. I say this because I'd never seen the film before I brought the DVD so don't know any different. If true, it'll certainly be interesting to see the proper soundtrack if and when it ever comes to DVD again. 2004 will mark the 20th anniversary of the film, so prehaps the time is right to ask Universal to consider a re-release with decent extras.

Long Duck Dong
Sixteen Candles is another classic 80's teen/high school film. It's one of the rare ones that is actually great and memorable. The film starts teen queen Molly Ringwald as Sam, your normal, every day kid. Her family has forgotten her sixteenth birthday amid all the uproar of her older sister's upcoming wedding. That's not all. An annoying geek(hilariously played by Anthony Michael Hall)is hound-dogging her, she has a huge crush on a popular jock, her grandparents have invaded her home, and, worst of all, a foreign kid named Long Duck Dong(Gedde Watannabe)is staying in her room. It's a comedy of chaos as a young teenager tries to grow up. As expected, happiness shines through for all in the end. Sixteen Candles is a sweet,hilarious look at the life of an ordinary teen. Molly Ringwald is so real and believeable in this that she could be somebody you know, or, just maybe, could be you. The always reliable Paul Dooley plays her father. Watch out for John Cusack, Joan Cusack, and Jami Gertz in small roles. Sixteen Candles is a candle you'll never want to blow out.

Definitive 80's. A must!
Sixteen Candles is a must-see classic. Truly unique, original, and memorable. The cast is fantastic and the story has been duplicated countless times. It took me so long to finally see this, and I regret not seeing it earlier. Everyone talks about it, it's not worth being left out and you're just gonna thank yourself later anyway, so SEE IT NOW if you haven't already. If you have, see it again, memorize the lines, and have a Sixteen Candles drinking party!!!!

Great movie - BAD DVD
This was a fun movie. It does not take itself seriously and pokes fun at its characters. Some of the pokig fun is not politically correct (to wit - Long Duk Dong, and some of the BoHunk comments)) but that was a bit of the 80's.

This DVD has the original soundtrack, previously unavailable on VHS or the old DVD, and it still holds up.

THE BAD PART
Where to start - the packaging is cheap cheap CHEAP! They did not even put in a little card to tell you the chapter names. There is no commentary, no extras, NOTHING!

PLUS when you put it in, it goes through ads for other movies and DISABLES THE MENU BUTTON!

Again, this is a fun, 80's movie, but the DVD is so cheap and so obnoxious to the fans/owners that I hate to recommend it becuse the people who put it together were such jerks.

But I do recommend it. Enjoy.

A Rememberable Teen Flick.
This is definately the rebound film. It is hard to live up to a movie like The Breakfast Club. This film is your average, average, teen movie. It does boost some new things to the screen, but it is mostly predictable, however, it is enjoyable. It has enough great moments to outweigh the cheesy parts, which makes it good in my book. If you are in the mood for a "no surprise" movie, this is the film for you. I reccomend it. ... Read more

Reviews (187)

"I haven't been home in years"
In my opinion this is John Candy's best movie. They should dedicate it to him. Steve Martin does a great job playing the cynic. It will have you crying from hysterical laughter or from tugging at your heartstrings. It starts out with "Neal" played by Steve Martin getting out of a marketing meeting late in New York during rush hour he runs to catch a cab for the airport so he can spend Thanksgiving with his family. With two days to get there you figure he should be plenty early. You aren't counting obstacles like "Del" played by John Candy. While Neal is giving money to a lawyer to buy him out of taking a cab in front of him, Del loads his trunk in it and takes off. The meetings and journey these two have after that is one for the record books. Del does everything he can to get Neal home to his family. They must take a Plane, Pickup Truck, Train, Bus, Rental Car, Semi, and the El to make it to Neal's Chicago Home with a detour to Kansas City. Neal may miss his daughters Thanksgiving Play but he will get a life lesson from Del that is priceless. This is a great one to own on DVD.

Any transportation will do!
Steve Martin and the late John Candy team up for this hilarious comedy PLANES,TRAINS and AUTOMOBILES. There's a cameo by Kevin Bacon who grabs a cab in the heavy New York City traffic. Bacon starred in SHE'S HAVING A BABY filmed around the same time as this film. Neal Page(Martin) is a marketing executive who plans to return home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. Neal grabs a cab,throwing out Del Griffith(Candy) who was about to enter the cab. Salesman Griffith and Page meet in an airport about to fly to Chicago. Massive storms forced the Chicago flight to be canceled so the two end up in Wichita,Kansas. Page and Griffith check in at the Braidwood Inn. They both take out their credit cards to pay,thus their respective cards accidentally end up in the other's wallet! Page and Griffith share a room since it was the only available room left. They sleep together,thus Page becomes annoyed by Griffith's loud snoring. Page became so angry that he impulsively got up and prepared to get dressed and leave. The pair end up in a heated argument over Griffith's behavior and imcompetence. Page's anger subsides so he undresses again and goes back to bed. Come daylight,Griffith is dreaming that he's embracing his late wife. He gently kisses Page's ear and Page is holding Griffith's hand. So Neal and Del make their plans on how to get home safely and quickly. One point in the film shows an angry Neal upset with an agent at a rent-a-car company("YOU CAN GET ME A F---ING DATSUN,A F---ING TOYOTA,A F---ING BUICK,A F---ING MUSTANG! FOUR F---ING WHEELS AND A SEAT!") What happens next? Del shows up in a car he's renting. Incompetent Del finishes smoking a cigarette that when he was about to toss the still-burning butt out the window,it accidentally ended up in the back seat of the car. The car becomes ablaze and even worse,Neal's wallet was in the glove compartment with his credit card back in it. All the glove compartment contents burned in the fire. Now Neal is really furious with Del. Neither had $42.50 to check in for the night at a nearby motel so Neal comes up with $17 cash and a wrist watch. The on-duty manager accepts Neal's alternate payment. When Del comes up with $2 cash and a nicer-looking watch,the manager refuses and "says goodnight". Del is freezing to death outside in his charred rent-a-car until Neal invites him to share his room. Come Thanksgiving Day,despite all the aggravation and struggling,Neal arrives home in Chicago safe and sound. Del is with him. Del confessed that he is homeless and lost his wife. That was why Del said in one scene,"I haven't been home in years." His business of selling shower curtain rings is what is keeping him financially stable and clean. The end theme is "Everytime You Go Away" written by Daryl Hall of the rock/pop duo Hall and Oates and was a minor hit for them and later a bigger hit for Paul Young. This film was directed by John Hughes who also directed SHE'S HAVING A BABY and would later direct CURLY SUE. Listen for an audio excerpt from SHE'S HAVING A BABY. It's an argument between Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern. I dedicate this film to the memory of John Candy who died in 1994 at age 43 of a heart attack.

TOPS!!
Call me silly, but I am 44 and have been watching movies most of my life. This is my #1 favorite movie of all time. It cant compare with the great movies throughout history, but they are not my #1 favorite....this one is. How is that for a review?

That's it?
Just the film? No give-me's? No side dishes? Movie a la carte? No interviews, outtakes... nothing?

Fortunately the movie itself is a decent comedy. PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES is a fine film in a long tradition of road films, where the final destination is seemingly impossible to reach (like CLOCKWISE, AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, e.g.) Steve Martin and John Candy make a surprisingly good team, and John Hughes lets them cut loose, fortunately. Unfortunately, the ending lurches into the treacly, sentimentality that Hughes just can't seem to avoid. Scratch that last comment, the ending I suppose is okay for this comedy. Give this film a view.

Great John Candy & Steve Martin Movie, but no extras
Let me start by saying that this is one of my favorite comedies of all time. I've loved this movie for years and I can watch it over and over again. I personally don't see how anyone could not like this movie, but you can't please everybody.
During the movie, Steve Martin is trying to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, but his plane lands in Kansas where he's stuck with Del Griffith (John Candy). They do everything they can to get home, but something always goes wrong. And you will laugh through almost the entire movie.
You've probably noticed that I gave this DVD 4 stars, and not 5. My reason for this: There are no special features. It seems like Paramound is just lazy when they put out DVD's. Almost every DVD I have that has no special features are by Paramount. There had to be interviews with Steve Martin and John Candy when the movie was made, or do some new interviews with Steve Martin and John Hughes. I would like to correct one reviewer about them cutting scenes from the DVD. I assume you are talking about the funny scene on the plane when they are being served their food. This is a scene that was not included in the movie at all, it's just added sometimes to the TV version. But I still think that scene should have been included on the DVD. Not as a deleted scene that you could view by itself, but actually included in the movie. ... Read more

Reviews (62)

A very funny movie about an unrealistic concept
Could anyone really create a girl on their computer in 1985? Probably not, but that doesn't stop Gary (brat packer Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell Smith) from giving it a shot. Mystical forces soon take over and the two high school losers are left with a beautiful bombshell who is willing to fulfill their every desire. Every boy's dream, right?
Well, not exactly. They are so inexperienced and scared that they don't know what to do with the wild party girl. The movie walks us through their journey from quirky geeks to studs when they finally stand up for themselves.
The two guys have great comic chemistry with Kelly LeBrock, computer babe Lisa and create many laughable encounters with each other and other characters. Bill Paxton, a more serious actor today, is convincing as the rotten Chet. This is the role I will always remember him for, no matter what other movies he goes off to make about ghosts or twisters.
Director/writer John Hughes delivers another timeless gem about teenagers, continuing with the traditions of "The Breakfast Club" and "Sixteen Candles." Here he gets a little sillier, but still remains clever and true-to-life.
DO watch this movie uncut on VHS or DVD if you really want to enjoy it. Cable TV does it absolutely no justice.

How about a greasy pork sandwich served in a dirty ashtray?
Of all the John Hughes-helmed 80's-teens-living-in-a-quaint-Chicago-suburb dramatic comedies, "Weird Science" is my favorite. While it's yet another take on on the 'losers who show everybody up in the end' genre of comedy that was so big at the time ('Revenge of the Nerds', anyone?), I find it far more hilarious than "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", and much more fun to watch than "The Breakfast Club". And you can hardly beat 'WS' when it comes to showcasing the fab fashions of the era. Ya know, big over-moussed and/or -crimped hair styles, narrow ties, pastels, spandex, and an overall lack of good taste that only the 70s can beat...

The two teen losers Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) & Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) have some great lines-- most of which I can't print in this review, but take my word: many of 'em are pretty freakin' funny. Bill Paxton's portrayal of nasty big-brother Chet was definitely a springboard for his career of playing whiny scumbag-type characters (remember Hudson from "Aliens"? Or the weasely car salesman from "True Lies"?). Robert Downey Jr. even makes a strong appearance, looking very much the epitome of 80's suburban new-wave fashion as one of our heroes' many tormentors, many years before his substance abuse problems made the headlines in the Hollywood gossip pages.

And then there's Kelly LeBrock as Lisa, a new take on 'Frankenstein'-- oh man, the wrong things I'm thinkin' as she struts about in the various outfits she throws herself into... and out of. Oh yes, heh. Er, excuse me; I gotta go hose myself down...

Okay, hormonal balance re-established, thank God. Speakin' of Lisa: my favorite part is where she takes the geeky buddies out to a bar with a predominantly black clientele. As Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) drinks himself into a near-stupor he becomes "pimp-daddy", doing the shuckin'-and-jivin' routine that Eminem couldn't even hope to touch. Amos 'n' Andy move over! Another great scene is Lisa letting Gary's parents know just what'll be goin' on at the house party she's taking their son to. Their overwrought reaction and Gary's complete embarrassment to her brutal honesty here is priceless!

Please note that there are two versions of 'Weird Science' on DVD. The latter release, part of Universal's "High School Reunion" series, includes the original soundtrack used in the theatrical version, as well as a much clearer and brighter picture, and superior audio quality and separation than the former release. Oh, and it also includes the original theatrical trailer as a bonus feature, and English subtitles. Unfortunately, the subtitles only catch about two thirds of what the subjects are actually saying 'cuz much of the dialogue is fairly swift. Otherwise, this is the best video release of the film to come out yet, and is a highly recommended addition to any 80s-teen-comedy fan's video shelf.

'Late

Chips, dips, chains, whips...
This is one of the great 80s flicks, courtesy of the great 80s flicks guy, John Hughes. There are a hundred moments in this movie that flash me back to being an awkward 13 year old dork (as opposed to the awkward 32 year old dork I am now). And so many great lines! "Do you realize it's snowing in my room, godd**it?" Or when Gary opens the bathroom door and the cute girl asks, "What are you guys doing in there?" "Gary was just takin' a s**t!" *flash to a hand slapping Wyatt's face*

And, ya gotta love the bar scene, where a drunk Gary "tells his tale."

Anyway, it's a funny, funny movie, and highly recommended to anyone who loves the John Hughes 80s. An essential!

More 80's dribble that we can't get enough of
This is another movie from the best decade in recorded history. Sure it's far out, unbelievable, and silly, but that's why we love it. I remember when this movie first came out Kelly LeBrock (The creation) was supposed to be 'the next big thing'. But hey, who wouldn't their woman going into a lingerie store and asking "Do you have this in black leather or barbed wire?"

Anthony Michael Hall is 'Dr. Frankenstein' and along with his dweeb partner, create the perfect woman with a Barbi Doll and a computer that could barely play Pong without crashing. My God do you remember those 5.25 inch floppy diskettes??

Well what else do we have, grandparents get frozen in a closet, the bully big brother turns into a green mucus pile with eyes, a clean Robert Downey Jr., a British Mad Max motorcycle gang in the living room, and oh yes, a nuclear missle growing out of the basement and through the roof.

Some things are dated, but boys wearing bras on their heads will never go out of style.

Weird Science
This movie is the best "retro" comedy movie in cinema history!!! It keeps you laughing through the whole movie! Not just giggling, but the kind of pee-your-pants laughing.I think the best scene is when the blonde kid gets drunk at the club...the way he slurrs is HILARIOUS!!! ... Read more

Reviews (54)

The Whole Charm of John Candy!
When his sister-in-law's father suffers a heart attack and needs to travel, UNCLE BUCK (John Candy ) is called in, the last available person to come and watch the kids. Certainly, an uncle should be able to take off without hitches. But, UNCLE BUCK, is one of those playful adults who has been dances his way out full-time employment and a marital contract with his frustrated girlfriend, Chanice Kobolowski (Amy Madigan). The plot thickens with humor as UNCLE BUCK tries to deal with an snobish teenager trying to undermine every aspect of his life in her home.

This is a comical story and adult guardians and the difficulty of growing up. If you have scene the chopped-up verion on TV, you haven't seen the whole of John Candy. I particularly missed the golf-lessons with Bug.

Look for great performaces by Laurie Metcalf ( Jacky, the sister from ROSEANNE the series), Jean Louisa Kelly, Gaby Hoffmann, Macaulay Culkin ( from Home Alone. He's about 4 or 5 in this), Amy Madigan, Elaine Bromka, and Jay Underwood.

Buck is.....well, Buck.
John Candy is Uncle Buck. Directed by John Hughes this movie is anything but boring. Buck's sister in law just found out that her father who lives out of town just had a heart attack. Desperately needing a baby sitter for their three young kids, (one of which is Macaulay Culkin from Home Alone), they turn to Buck, a party going guy, who at the age of 40 is still un-employed, un-married and un-knowing in the art of raising children. But "no problem" he thinks...."kids are easy". Wrong, what he finds is a house full of responsibility with a rebellious teen to take care of as well as her younger brother and sister. Meanwhile his girlfriend keeps more pressure on him about the two of them getting married, despite the fact that Buck just doesn't want to settle down. Uncle Buck is a classic comedy thats just plain fun to watch so don't miss it.

I give this movie only 4 stars despite its appeal to me due to the fact that I give only movies that overly hilarious from beginning to end a 5 star rating. Uncle Buck though does have a few parts that are without comic relief, but that doesn't stop the story or that particular part of the movie from being entertaining. Its still a great family comedy classic.

Another great John Candy comedy

Director: John Hughes
Format: Color
Studio: Universal Studios
Video Release Date: January 19, 1999

Cast:

John Candy ... Buck Russell
Jean Louisa Kelly ... Tia Russell
Gaby Hoffmann ... Maisy Russell
Macaulay Culkin ... Miles Russell
Amy Madigan ... Chanice Kobolowski
Elaine Bromka ... Cindy Russell
Garrett M. Brown ... Bob Russell
Laurie Metcalf ... Marcie Dahlgren-Frost
Jay Underwood ... Bug
Brian Tarantina ... E. Roger Coswell
Mike Starr ... Pooter-the-Clown
Suzanne Shepherd ... Mrs. Hogarth
William Windom ... Mr. Hatfield
Dennis Cockrum ... Pal
Joel Robinson ... Miles' Friend #1
Colin Baumgartner ... Miles' Friend #2
Erik Whipple ... Miles' Friend #3
Mark Rosenthal ... Party Boy #1
Doug von Nessen ... Party Boy #2
Wayne Kneeland ... Party Boy #3
Gigi Casler ... Party Girl in Bedroom
LaVerne Anderson ... Party Girl #1
Gina Doctor ... Party Girl #2
Rachel Thompson Perrine ... Party Girl #3
Ron Payne ... Maisy's Teacher

Jane Vickerilla ... Teacher #1
Kyle Lewis Eastman ... School Child
Dana Taylor ... School Child
Jennifer Kane ... School Child
Christen Loftis ... School Child
Genae Affrunti ... School Child
Anna Chlumsky ... School Child
Betsy Bottando ... Woman in Car
Julia Morgan ... Additional Voices
Granville Ames ... Additional Voices
Ramey Ellis ... Additional Voices
Leigh French ... Additional Voices
Patricia Arquette ... Additional Voices
Laura Jacoby ... Additional Voices

Devon Odessa ... Additional Voices
Arnold F. Turner ... Additional Voices
Garin Bouble ... Additional Voices
Tim Hoskins ... Additional Voices
Julie Payne ... Additional Voices
Jack Blessing ... Additional Voices
Todd Larson ... Additional Voices
Michael Berkowitz ... Student
Ryan Todd ... School Child

The Russell's have to go to Indianapolis because Cindy's (Elaine Bromka) father has had a heart attack. They can't find anyone to watch their three children while they are gone except batchelor uncle Buck (John Candy), Bob's brother (Garrett M. Brown). The little kid's, Maisy and Miles (Gaby Hoffman and Macaulay Culkin) are no great problem, with the exception of the teenage girl, Tia, (Jean Louisa Kelly), who is a pouting, angry, snotty, rebellious little jerk. She treats her mother disrespectfully, is self-centered, and carries that attitude on to Buck, who is trying to do the right things by the kids, In other words, she is playing the part of an ordinary 15-year-old who has never been properly disciplined by her parents.

This was a great movie. I particularly enjoyed the parts where Buck was threatening Tia's boyfriend, Bug (Jay Underwood), who has dishonorable designs on the girl. Buck's threatening attitude was delicious, and my appreciation no doubt reflects my own dislike of teenaged boys, the same feelings as any man who has had teenaged daughters to raise. Namely: that they should all be imprisoned until they are at least 40-years-old and rendered eunuchs, and the girls' fathers need to be well armed at all times with shotguns, and the boys in question should be left with absolutely no doubt as to the fathers' willingness--even eagerness--to use them with the intent to emasculate the culprits who dare to even think about touching their daughter.

Joseph (Joe) Pierre

author of Handguns and Freedom...their care and maintenance
and other books

Uncle Buck Is Totally Funny!!!
When I first saw this movie on TV I knew I was going to like this even before I watched it.My favorite part in the movie is Macaulay Culkin who plays Miles Russell asks Buck those personal questions to him that part was just too Cute!!!Macaulay Culkin was such a very Cute Kid in this movie.And I also like John Candy,too.I feel so bad that he's dead now.This movie is the Best,I gotta get This Movie!!!!!!

Buck Russell... Best Uncle EVER!
John Candy has his BEST performance EVER in this film by John Hughes. "Uncle" Buck Russell (Candy) is a perpetual screw-up who HAS to get his act together enough to watch over his older brother's three kids & dog, Tia, Miles, Maisy and puppy, Parsey since his sister-in-law's father had a heart attack.

The cast includes Mac Culkin as Miles, Gaby Hoffman as Maisy, Amy Madigan as Buck's girlfriend, Chanice Kobolowski, & Laurie Metcalf (Roseanne's sister, Jackie) as the crazy neighbor lady, Marcie Dahlgren-Frost. Also billed in small parts are Anna Chlumsky (My Girl), Patricia Arquette, and Devon Odessa (My So-Called Life).

This film is totally hilarious but also has those wonderful John Candy touching/sentimental moments.

A wonderful family film that can be watched over and over again!

Happy Watching! ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Funny & Honest!
This film is told mostly from Kevin Bacon's (Jake)perspective through narration, a funny & pretty honest look at early married life. Many subtle jokes here, along with laugh out loud sight gags. It isn't just a comedy it works on different levels. Elizabeth McGovern(Cristy)is an attractive, yet reserved wife who is grounded, unlike her husband. Jake has questions..many questions, trying to figure out his life..and his wife. There is a genuine chemistry between them. Alec Baldwin is very good as Jake's bachelor friend. John Ashton is hilarious talking about garden hoses & lawnmowers! I am surprised so many people missed or skipped this film. The music ranges from Gene Loves Jezebel's "Desire" to Kate Bush's "This Woman's Work". The ending credit sequence has cameos from: Cast of Cheers & Ferris Bueller, Ally Sheedy, Magic Johnson & Dan Ackroyd.

The DVD: It is 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen, with 5.1 Dolby sound. I would rank the picture quality a Solid 4 and the sound a 5. Unfortunatly no extras, a Trailer. (Would have loved to hear a Bacon/McGovern or John Hughes commentary!) If you are a fan, don't hesitate picking up this DVD.(Plastic Keepcase)

Good Romantic Comedy Plus Early Alec Baldwin
This is a funny, enjoyable romantic comedy, with Elizabeth McGovern and Kevin Bacon both providing a rich look at a young married couple and their struggles.

This movie's true bonus, though, is an early look at Alec Baldwin. I read somewhere that Barbra Streisand, way back long ago when she was in her prime, maintained two complete wardrobes -- one for when she was thin ("What's Up Doc?") and one for when she was chubby ("Hello Dolly!"). "She's Having A Baby" is definitely from young Alec Baldwin's thin days, when he displayed tremendous potential for being a handsome leading man of the cinema. Alec, however, never had to maintain two wardrobes as his film career progressed -- he simply bought larger clothes for each new movie, packing on a little more for "Glengarry Glen Ross" and then really porking up for "Pearl Harbor," and in all likelihood giving away his thin clothes because he certainly didn't need them any more. Soon, Alec will be able to play "Big Daddy" in a remake of "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof."

She's Having A Baby
This movie was and has been one of my favorites from the 80's. It is a true classic... I love all of the classic 80's movies and now that I am at the age of being in a marriage and babies a part of my life... every time I watch it brings great joy of what I always wanted. This movie I can watch over and over when there is a down time and it brings me back to my growing years.

My all time favorite romantic movie
This is the the sweetest, most touching romance movie that I personally have ever seen. Contained within this comedy-romance are some profound truths about men, women and relationships that I have never seen talked about in any other movie in such a dead-on way.

Christie's 3 or 4 sentence explination of why she won't cheat on her husband contains more truth than I have ever seen in a movie about why you don't cheat on your mate. Many marriages would not end in divorce if the people in them understood what Christy demonstrates in this film.

This is a movie which I feel does a near-perfect job of conveying what is really important in life. I think every married couple should see it. This video could be better marriage therapy than counseling. While there are a few corny jokes in the movie, they don't get in the way of what is really trying to be conveyed: That when you find that one special person, you hold on and never let go. That there is more satisfaction than many people imagine in an 'ordinary life,' and that true love really is worth it.

The most wonderful romance movie I have ever seen.

Finally on DVD! (Soundtrack Information Below)
She's Having A Baby has always been a favorite movie of mine. Alas, I didn't see it in theaters but got it on video and wore my copy out from repeat viewings. Finally the DVD has arrived, but with the exception of a trailer there's nothing as far as Special Features, which is pretty disappointing. The film is letterboxed to it's proper 1.85:1 aspect ratio and looks just great. The sound is also good. Would've liked a John Hughes audio commentary like the one he did for the Ferris Bueller's Day Off DVD, but no such luck.

As for the movie itself, I think it's wonderful. A sweet and honest interpretation of growing up into adulthood and living with the decisions that you make. Since Kevin Bacon plays a writer named Jefforson (Jake) Briggs, we get to view his imagination thru certain scenes when he's sort of daydreaming, that come across very comically (like the lawnmower ballet). My favorite is when Kristi (Elizabeth McGovern) tells him "I stopped taking the pill three months ago", to which he sits up and starts screaming, imagining himself on a fastmoving traincar in a straitjacket, crashing into a brick wall. If those visuals don't explain his anxiety I don't know what would. That's the fun of the movie.

Everyone's talking about the wonderful Soundtrack that is out of print. This is because it was owned by I.R.S. Records and they went out of business many years ago and no one has bothered to pick up the rights to reissue it. I feel lucky, since I bought it on cassette and CD back in the early 90s. But if you really want to find one I suggest you try an online auction house such as ebay. They always have copies of the soundtrack to sell.

I always feel cheated when I buy a Paramount DVD because they are so expensive and usually only have a trailer as a bonus. Luckily I got this one dirt cheap at an auction, but even so they should'nt be charging us an arm and a leg for "movie only" DVDs when other studios (like Warner Bros.) sell "Special Edition" DVDs at cheaper prices. If you feel the same way as me I hope you'll write to Paramount and share your disappointment.

I hope these remarks were helpful. ... Read more

Reviews (282)

Twist and Shout
What would a typical day be if you always got away with everything? Check in on Ferris and you'll have some idea. John Hughes, master of 80s teens dramas like Breakfast Club and Sixteen Candles created an eighties film icon when he brought this film to the screen. The film is filled with old fashioned film and theatrical techniques, that to the youth of the day, was interpreted as new and cutting edge... Ferris (Matthew Broderick in the role he was born to play) spends a lot of time talking directly to the audience as his character would be the only one in the film with the guts to let anyone else see... He is surrounded by his beautiful girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara) and browbeaten buddy, Cameron. Although Sloane's role is pretty thankless, Cameron is the most troublesome character; it is the film's weak link even with a sufficient performance by Alan Ruck. Cameron is at times the anti-Ferris, someone who lives in constant fear of his father and authority in general. Ferris is so popular that he gets two antagonists to his adventure, his sister Jeannie (Jennifer Grey) and a school administrator played by the wonderful Jeffrey Jones. He is always willing to have every joke at his expense. One of the unwritten stars of this film is the beautiful city of Chicago, providing many of the great outdoor scenes. In fact, Ferris commands the attention of thousands of Chicago parade watchers and turns them to celebrate his whim to the strains of "DANKE SCHOEN" and TWIST AND SHOUT. This is one of the most rewarding, mindless scenes in recent history. The DVD nicely accentuates the English pop soundtrack and the video transfer is great. One drawback is one of the most boring audio commentaries in recent memory from the director John Hughes.

Be sure to stay through the closing credits... Bueller? Bueller? Bueller?

Absolutely hilarious!
In "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", Matthew Broderick plays Ferris Bueller, a high school teenager who enjoys slacking off and cutting school is his favorite hobby. One brilliant day in his hometown of Chicago, Ferris decides to cut school again (even though he has already missed school nine times), and tries to show his sick best friend, Cameron Frye (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend, Sloane Peterson (Mia Sara) how to have a good time and just how to be laid-back with life. Ferris can easily fool his parents (Cindy Pickett and Lyman Ward) into believing that he is really sick so he can stay home from school. But when his sister, Jeanie Bueller (Jennifer Grey) and school dean, Ed Rooney (Jeffrey Jones) find out that Ferris has cut school, they both try to make his life as miserable as possible in their own ways. And it's up to Ferris to enjoy his day off and get home before his parents come home from work.

The cast is brilliant...this is probably Matthew Brodderick's best role to-date. Director John Hughes did an amazing job, as usual. The script is well-written and extremely funny. "Ferris Bueller" is a classic high school film that everyone should own. However, the DVD lacks terribly; the only bonus feature is a commentary made by John Hughes. And the DVD is available in wide screen format.

I highly recommend "Ferris Beuller's Day Off".

Score:
100/100
A+

Great director's commentary
This remains one of the most entertaining director's commentaries available.

Nice
Good movie. Wish I was like him.

Awesome movie
This movie is one of my all time favorites. Who hasn't seen this movie? It rocks! Funny and clever from start to finish. The commentary is great too. ... Read more

Amazon.com

An endearing rags-to-riches family comedy of a wandering scam artist and his streetwise, curly-headed sidekick, this guilty pleasure ranks with John Hughes's best films. Curly Sue is the story of the street-hardened yet tender Bill Dancer (Jim Belushi) and orphaned accomplice Curly Sue (Alisan Porter). Curly Sue and Bill scam Grey Ellison (Kelly Lynch), an unsuspecting power attorney, out of a hot meal and a penthouse bed. Grey warms to the adorable Sue and the diamond-in-the-rough Bill and cools to her ruthless profession as the trio begins to feel more like a family. John Getz plays Walker McCormick, Grey's stuffy, affected boyfriend who tries his best to force the vagabonds on to the next train out of Chicago. Belushi is well cast for this role, blending grit and heart nicely, but it's the charming performance of Porter that steals most scenes. Imagine a modern Annie through the witty eye of hit filmmaker Hughes and you have Curly Sue. --Sarah Chace ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Sweet "Orphan Annie-ish" Formula Comedy/Tear Jerker
Writer/Director John Hughes covered all bases (as usual) with this bitter-sweet "Sunday Afternoon" family movie. "Curly Sue" is a sweet, precocious orphan, cared for from infancy by "Bill". The pair live off their witts as they travel the great US of A. Fate matches them with a "very pretty" yuppie lawyer, and the rest is predictable.

Kids will love this film, as they can relate to the heroine, played by 9 year old Alisan Poter (who went on to be the "you go girl!" of Pepsi commercials). The character is supposed to be about 6 or 7, as she is urged to think about going to school. Some of her vocabulary suggests that she is every day of 9 or older.

Similar to "Home Alone", there is plenty of slap-stick and little fists punching big fat chins. Again, this is "formula" film making, aimed at a young audience. Entertaining and heartwarming. Don't look for any surprises, but be prepared to shed a tear or two.****

Sweet!
I love Jim Belushi and this is one of my favorite movies of his, it's a cute and sweet comedy about a con artist and an adorable little girl with curly hair. Jim Belushi is great and so is adorable Alisan Porter as Curly Sue.

I wish this sweet movie was on DVD and in widescreen!

Great!
This is a really good film! James Belushi stars as a con-man stuck with a cute little girl with curly hair. In another one of their typical cons, they hit the jackpot. They get taken in by Kelly Lynch, who plays a tough, no nonsense attorney. She lets them stay the night after she hits Belushi with her car and eventually they make their way into her heart as well. Of course, this is a John Hughes film, and they always have an underlying dark theme to them (this film is no exception), but all in all it is a great movie. Little Curly Sue will steal your heart. Want a feel good movie with a happy ending? Voila!

This could have been a great Hughes film!
This is John Hughes's last film (to date) as a director and marks a change in focus from his previous work where he had focussed more on teenagers than small children. The expert view of teenage life given in Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club gives way to a rather Hollywood view of cutesy tots. Stage school moppet Alisan Porter is only a short step away from singing 'Tomorrow, Tomorrow' or 'Animal Crackers In My Soup' and both the performance and writing jar somewhat in an otherwise well-made film. Belushi is an amiable anti-hero as the tramp that gets helped out by the mega-rich lawyer, but Kelly Lynch's character is somewhat clichéd. Do lawyers really get paid as much in America as film and television would have you believe? If so, no wonder people dislike them so much. There is a pretty good musical score here finishing with a great little song from Ringo Starr as the credits roll. It's a sweet film, but would have been better with a different central character.

Good I suppose
This movie is more than predictable but otherwise it is very sweet. The cast is great and the storyline is sweet. The little girl Alisan Porter is also adorable... okay enough cutesy language. ... Read more

Reviews (213)

2 thumbs down
I found John Hughes' 1985 movie The Breakfast Club to be an extremely generalized, heavy handed, piece of trite filmmaking that may or may not have been relevant to teenagers fifteen years ago, but is certainly nowhere near on target now.
Obviously it was by design that his five main characters were one-dimensional character sketches of so-called 'traditional' high school stereotypes. You have Andy the jock (Emilio Estevez), Claire the princess (Molly Ringwald, a John Hughes staple), Bender the criminal (Judd Nelson), Brian the nerd (Anthony Michael Hall), and Allison the basket case (Ally Sheedy). In my opinion, for Hughes to insinuate that these five people come from completely different backgrounds and had absolutely no contact with each other or anyone else from their particular 'type' during school is just plain silly. For example, it is quite likely that Claire and Andy, being popular people, would know each other, or at least that princesses and jocks would interact on a regular basis. Same thing goes for Bender and Allison as social outcasts. Only Brian, being the brain, would logically be shunned by all other classes.
For another thing, these categories have little relevance today because in today's modern society, and indeed this has always been true, teens simply cannot be categorized and labeled, even by their peers, in this manner. I myself saw elements of my personality in every one of the characters, and neither I nor anyone I know would fit neatly into these stereotypes.
The last thing I'm going to gripe about in this review is, logically enough, the ending. For a film that tried so hard to be edgy, the denouement was awfully hackneyed and predictable. Four out of the five characters hook up at the end? Gosh, I never saw that coming! Also, the treatment of Allison was laughable. This girl has serious psychological issues that have been with her all her life, but all she needs is a little makeup, a nice dress, and a clean-cut boyfriend to set her to rights? I don't think so, pal. Willful suspension of disbelief is all fine and good, but to trivialize Allison's pain and emotional trauma in this manner is irresponsible and does a disservice to those young people who do identify with her character. I think that's enough bashing for this film; while it had its moments, it certainly is by no means the 'classic' that it is reputed to be.

One for the ages
This movie is a classic and it will stand the test of time. This is the second "teen coming of age" installment from John Hues, and round 2 for Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall. The first installment, Sixteen Candles, was more of a sexual coming of age movie whereas The Breakfast Club is more of a coming of age for one's character and social awareness. Where they are "teetering" with; do they stay with the social allegiances of their perspective pack, or do they listen to that inner voice...the voice of reason, maturity and human compassion that's not bound to any "click". I also like the choice of actors here; I think they all fit like pieces in a puzzle and make their characters totally believable. I am in the same age range as almost the entire cast and I was a senior in High school when this film came out. Allot of reviews seem to put this film within the Junior High crowd but I feel it's much more mature than that. The very message that it's trying to get across isn't understood in real life until we get close to 18 or so. The story is simple; 5 kids have to come into school on a Saturday for detention. At first they try to segregate themselves according to their school social standings. Inevitably they find out that they are more alike than they ever thought. The movie, in my eyes, is broken into 3 parts; the first part is pure character development. This is where you (the viewer) get to know each person they way they are supposed to be seen with their everyday face. At first, they act the way they think they should act, and stand up for what they always had, with out question or defiance. They stay true to their cause never steering away for a second. The second part of the film is where the movie itself develops. These 5 separate entities realize that they are variations of the same person. They have the same desires and anguishes. Their pressures and stresses are the same even though it's generated from very different sources.
The jock (Emilio Estevez) has the pressure to be on top of his sport (wrestling). In return for this he gets attention from his dad, coaches and keeps his standing within his social group. This is his priority in life and he doesn't stray.
The Princess (Molly Ringwald) has to conform and obey the rules of her social group in order to be accepted and keep her standing within the group. She keeps her eyes closed; mouth shut and goes along for the ride.
The Metal Head/criminal (Judd Nelson) is an angry guy! He wears the physical and mental scars of growing up in an abusive house. He hates most people, like the ones Emilio and Molly play, because in his eyes, they have had a free ticket and earned nothing...things are handed to them because of their social and/or economical standings. On the other hand, he feels that he's on a whole other plain because his eyes have been beaten open and he was forced to grow up a little faster than he wanted too or was ready too. I feel that Judd Nelson's character is the most crucial to the movie. He is the key to this whole new self-awareness for everyone, including himself.
The nerd (Anthony Michael Hall) is the quintessential geek. His every woken moment is spent learning. He hides behind his grades and in fact, he wants to be more accepted by the "cooler" groups. He also is a little "cocky" about his better grades and academically superiority to the other people in the room.
The weirdo (Ally Sheedy) is a loner and an outcast. She doesn't have friends that we (the viewers) know of. Because her parents ignore her, She feels ugly and without a place in the world. She is starving for positive attention. I think her character was needed in this movie to balance off the cast. It would have left out a very critical part of teen angst!
Richard Vernon (Paul Gleason) is the "Villain" of the movie. To the kids, he represents the out of touch older generation and the mean spirited, high testosterone adult. For Richard Vernon, these kids are the source of his anger and agony. He has lost touch with the younger generation for 1 reason, he got older...and the older you get, the harder it is to relate to youth. Youth recycles right before your eyes, but you keep getting older. His character is the key that releases these kids. He helps them to strip away the blindfolds and to take a fresh look at every thing and everyone (including themselves).

This leads to the 3rd and final part of the movie. Where they cleanse themselves of all the pentad up anger and prejudices. When the kids realize that they all have the same goal, they were just taking different roads to reach it. I highly recommend The Breakfast Club and it should go down as one of the all time great teenage movie!

A little time - a little perspective
I first saw this movie at a cinema in Austin in March, 1985. Just a year out of high school, I thought this was a deep, moving motion picture with a quality cast that really showed the feelings of different groups of students in schools. I could relate to the characters.

Move forward more than 19 years. This movie has not aged well. I read on the IMDB that John Hughes wrote this script in two days. After watching this movie again, I find that very easy to believe. It is horrible! - and this coming from a man who loves all things 80's! Was Judd Nelson about 35 when he made that movie? He looks about 20 years older than Anthony Michael Hall. Unbelievable characters and dialogue. Then they tie it up nice and neat at the end - with 2 unlikely couples pairing off leading us to believe there's no social caste in high schools.

With the small cast and lack of location shots, I'm amazed that I've never read about some high school drama club doing a stage production of this disaster. In any case, I've got a Breakfast Club DVD I'll never watch again - I'll post it used "New & Used" above.

Still relevant after all these years
Some question the durability of "The Breakfast Club," saying that the themes and plotlines do not hold up in today's teen society. As a 15-year-old, I would like to say that that is thoroughly untrue. 19 years after its release, "The Breakfast Club" is still a truthful, relateable account of teenagers and their personalities, and the ways in which they interact with each other. Sure, the stereotypes of the characters may be a bit exaggerated -- but that's necessary in order to get the point across. Watching this movie, I feel as if I know these people, or at least I've run across them at one point in my high school career.

The plot, as most people know, involves five different kids being assigned Saturday detention together. Each kid represents a typical high school stereotype -- a princess (Molly Ringwald), a jock (Emilio Estevez), a brain (Anthony Michael Hall), a basket case (the excellent Ally Sheedy), and a criminal (Judd Nelson). At the beginning of the day, none of them know each other, except for the princess and the jock. Throughout the day, they learn more about each other and work at tearing down the stereotypes that pit them against each other. As for the reviewer who said this isn't realistic that they would open up so much to each other -- it absolutely is. Put five kids into a room without an adult for nine hours, and they will talk about anything.

The beauty of this movie is the depth of the characters beyond the stereotypes -- particularly the nerd, Brian, who as we find out in the movie has problems well beyond what people think of him. He is the one that I most relate to in the movie. Watch "The Breakfast Club," and see who you most relate to. It's a great experience. Beyond the social commentary aspect, it's also just a funny movie. The jokes come at breakneck speed, especially for the first half of the movie (before it gets somewhat serious). The actors are also very enjoyable in their roles, particularly Ally Sheedy and Anthony Michael Hall. Highly recommended.

Must have to any collection.
The quintessential John Hughes film. I remember in my English class my junior year (1987) we had to analyze this movie. Only 2 years after it's release it was had all the qualities needed for a class analysis. I will spare you the report that I did back then.

Since then I have watched this movie at least once a year (and contrary to popular believe it is not for the panty shot). The characters are very well done. There is something that anyone who went through high school can relate to, even if we fit more than just one character. The interactions between the teens towards each other and then towards the principal as a group is classic. It's got love, teen angst, popular kids, geeks, dweebs, outcasts and the ever popular kid that doesn't fit in but always tries to get the attention. Nothing like dumping out your bag for people to go through to get attention.

Of course you can't forget the star cast of strong 80's actors, Emilio Estevez (Andrew 'Andy') Anthony Michael Hall (Brian) Judd Nelson (John Bender) Molly Ringwald (Claire) Ally Sheedy (Allison) and Paul Gleason (Principal). Great acting, John's look at teenagers and a great script all make for a very enjoyable look at the interactions and 'attitude' typical of the high school years.

I truly could go on about this movie but I won't. I'll just say that this is a much have for any movie buff and if you haven't seen it you must. ... Read more

Description

The Frankenstein legend takes an uproarious twist in this outrageous special effects-laden comedy from John Hughes, director of "Sixteen Candles" and "The Breakfast Club." ... Read more

Reviews (62)

A very funny movie about an unrealistic concept
Could anyone really create a girl on their computer in 1985? Probably not, but that doesn't stop Gary (brat packer Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell Smith) from giving it a shot. Mystical forces soon take over and the two high school losers are left with a beautiful bombshell who is willing to fulfill their every desire. Every boy's dream, right?
Well, not exactly. They are so inexperienced and scared that they don't know what to do with the wild party girl. The movie walks us through their journey from quirky geeks to studs when they finally stand up for themselves.
The two guys have great comic chemistry with Kelly LeBrock, computer babe Lisa and create many laughable encounters with each other and other characters. Bill Paxton, a more serious actor today, is convincing as the rotten Chet. This is the role I will always remember him for, no matter what other movies he goes off to make about ghosts or twisters.
Director/writer John Hughes delivers another timeless gem about teenagers, continuing with the traditions of "The Breakfast Club" and "Sixteen Candles." Here he gets a little sillier, but still remains clever and true-to-life.
DO watch this movie uncut on VHS or DVD if you really want to enjoy it. Cable TV does it absolutely no justice.

How about a greasy pork sandwich served in a dirty ashtray?
Of all the John Hughes-helmed 80's-teens-living-in-a-quaint-Chicago-suburb dramatic comedies, "Weird Science" is my favorite. While it's yet another take on on the 'losers who show everybody up in the end' genre of comedy that was so big at the time ('Revenge of the Nerds', anyone?), I find it far more hilarious than "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", and much more fun to watch than "The Breakfast Club". And you can hardly beat 'WS' when it comes to showcasing the fab fashions of the era. Ya know, big over-moussed and/or -crimped hair styles, narrow ties, pastels, spandex, and an overall lack of good taste that only the 70s can beat...

The two teen losers Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) & Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) have some great lines-- most of which I can't print in this review, but take my word: many of 'em are pretty freakin' funny. Bill Paxton's portrayal of nasty big-brother Chet was definitely a springboard for his career of playing whiny scumbag-type characters (remember Hudson from "Aliens"? Or the weasely car salesman from "True Lies"?). Robert Downey Jr. even makes a strong appearance, looking very much the epitome of 80's suburban new-wave fashion as one of our heroes' many tormentors, many years before his substance abuse problems made the headlines in the Hollywood gossip pages.

And then there's Kelly LeBrock as Lisa, a new take on 'Frankenstein'-- oh man, the wrong things I'm thinkin' as she struts about in the various outfits she throws herself into... and out of. Oh yes, heh. Er, excuse me; I gotta go hose myself down...

Okay, hormonal balance re-established, thank God. Speakin' of Lisa: my favorite part is where she takes the geeky buddies out to a bar with a predominantly black clientele. As Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) drinks himself into a near-stupor he becomes "pimp-daddy", doing the shuckin'-and-jivin' routine that Eminem couldn't even hope to touch. Amos 'n' Andy move over! Another great scene is Lisa letting Gary's parents know just what'll be goin' on at the house party she's taking their son to. Their overwrought reaction and Gary's complete embarrassment to her brutal honesty here is priceless!

Please note that there are two versions of 'Weird Science' on DVD. The latter release, part of Universal's "High School Reunion" series, includes the original soundtrack used in the theatrical version, as well as a much clearer and brighter picture, and superior audio quality and separation than the former release. Oh, and it also includes the original theatrical trailer as a bonus feature, and English subtitles. Unfortunately, the subtitles only catch about two thirds of what the subjects are actually saying 'cuz much of the dialogue is fairly swift. Otherwise, this is the best video release of the film to come out yet, and is a highly recommended addition to any 80s-teen-comedy fan's video shelf.

'Late

Chips, dips, chains, whips...
This is one of the great 80s flicks, courtesy of the great 80s flicks guy, John Hughes. There are a hundred moments in this movie that flash me back to being an awkward 13 year old dork (as opposed to the awkward 32 year old dork I am now). And so many great lines! "Do you realize it's snowing in my room, godd**it?" Or when Gary opens the bathroom door and the cute girl asks, "What are you guys doing in there?" "Gary was just takin' a s**t!" *flash to a hand slapping Wyatt's face*

And, ya gotta love the bar scene, where a drunk Gary "tells his tale."

Anyway, it's a funny, funny movie, and highly recommended to anyone who loves the John Hughes 80s. An essential!

More 80's dribble that we can't get enough of
This is another movie from the best decade in recorded history. Sure it's far out, unbelievable, and silly, but that's why we love it. I remember when this movie first came out Kelly LeBrock (The creation) was supposed to be 'the next big thing'. But hey, who wouldn't their woman going into a lingerie store and asking "Do you have this in black leather or barbed wire?"

Anthony Michael Hall is 'Dr. Frankenstein' and along with his dweeb partner, create the perfect woman with a Barbi Doll and a computer that could barely play Pong without crashing. My God do you remember those 5.25 inch floppy diskettes??

Well what else do we have, grandparents get frozen in a closet, the bully big brother turns into a green mucus pile with eyes, a clean Robert Downey Jr., a British Mad Max motorcycle gang in the living room, and oh yes, a nuclear missle growing out of the basement and through the roof.

Some things are dated, but boys wearing bras on their heads will never go out of style.

Weird Science
This movie is the best "retro" comedy movie in cinema history!!! It keeps you laughing through the whole movie! Not just giggling, but the kind of pee-your-pants laughing.I think the best scene is when the blonde kid gets drunk at the club...the way he slurrs is HILARIOUS!!! ... Read more

Description

It's Samantha Baker's Sweet Sixteen and no one in her family remembers the important occasion. John Hughes (Home Alone) shows how coming-of-age can be full of surprises in this warm-hearted teenage comedy. ... Read more

Reviews (129)

I never get tired of this movie
I'm watching this movie yet again, after seeing it countless times. I first saw it when it came out in 1984 - I graduated from high school in 1970, but this movie hits everyone where they live, no matter how old. I think all of us can remember someone like Samantha, Jake, the Donger...

The plot is so cute, the people are cute, and the script is hilarious - I laugh hysterically every time I see this movie. I've had the tape now for several years, and every so often, I have to get it out just to have tons of laughs. I even actually talk the dialogue out with the characters. I used to do dialogue from this movie with anyone that has seen it; my ex-hubby and I used quote the dialogue from it all the time, and crack each other up.

Get this movie and be prepared to roll on the floor.

Ringwald's BEST
This movie is hillarious. It portays high school so well! It just takes the stupid things we did as kids, and magnifies them. I would go as far as to say that Sixteen Candles is the GREATEST highschool film ever made! I've seen it more times than I can count!

Awesome and Hilarious Movie
Ok- for any of you out there who want a good, funny, and easy to relate to movie-- this is it! This movie definitely tells the story of many of today's teenage girls, even if it was made in the 80's. It is the best movie that I've watched -EVER! It is a great movie to watch for a few laughs over the years.

SIXTEEN CANDLES ROX!
Sixteen candles is like, the best film (besides the Breakfast club, of course!) It's funny, witty, and lets the viewers glimpse life through the eyes of your every day teen; crushes, worries, family. Molly Ringwald is a great actress, and you should at least rent Sixteen Candles, even if you don't buy it!

80's High School At It's Best!
This is one of my all time fav. movies. It's high school at it's best. The idea that the "POPULAR" guy could actually be interested in the younger and not as popular girl, is the stuff of dreams. :) Anthony Michael Hall brings the comic relief and the sisters wedding is down right "fall on the floor" laughter. A great movie..and, an all time classic! ... Read more

Reviews (282)

Twist and Shout
What would a typical day be if you always got away with everything? Check in on Ferris and you'll have some idea. John Hughes, master of 80s teens dramas like Breakfast Club and Sixteen Candles created an eighties film icon when he brought this film to the screen. The film is filled with old fashioned film and theatrical techniques, that to the youth of the day, was interpreted as new and cutting edge... Ferris (Matthew Broderick in the role he was born to play) spends a lot of time talking directly to the audience as his character would be the only one in the film with the guts to let anyone else see... He is surrounded by his beautiful girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara) and browbeaten buddy, Cameron. Although Sloane's role is pretty thankless, Cameron is the most troublesome character; it is the film's weak link even with a sufficient performance by Alan Ruck. Cameron is at times the anti-Ferris, someone who lives in constant fear of his father and authority in general. Ferris is so popular that he gets two antagonists to his adventure, his sister Jeannie (Jennifer Grey) and a school administrator played by the wonderful Jeffrey Jones. He is always willing to have every joke at his expense. One of the unwritten stars of this film is the beautiful city of Chicago, providing many of the great outdoor scenes. In fact, Ferris commands the attention of thousands of Chicago parade watchers and turns them to celebrate his whim to the strains of "DANKE SCHOEN" and TWIST AND SHOUT. This is one of the most rewarding, mindless scenes in recent history. The DVD nicely accentuates the English pop soundtrack and the video transfer is great. One drawback is one of the most boring audio commentaries in recent memory from the director John Hughes.

Be sure to stay through the closing credits... Bueller? Bueller? Bueller?

Absolutely hilarious!
In "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", Matthew Broderick plays Ferris Bueller, a high school teenager who enjoys slacking off and cutting school is his favorite hobby. One brilliant day in his hometown of Chicago, Ferris decides to cut school again (even though he has already missed school nine times), and tries to show his sick best friend, Cameron Frye (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend, Sloane Peterson (Mia Sara) how to have a good time and just how to be laid-back with life. Ferris can easily fool his parents (Cindy Pickett and Lyman Ward) into believing that he is really sick so he can stay home from school. But when his sister, Jeanie Bueller (Jennifer Grey) and school dean, Ed Rooney (Jeffrey Jones) find out that Ferris has cut school, they both try to make his life as miserable as possible in their own ways. And it's up to Ferris to enjoy his day off and get home before his parents come home from work.

The cast is brilliant...this is probably Matthew Brodderick's best role to-date. Director John Hughes did an amazing job, as usual. The script is well-written and extremely funny. "Ferris Bueller" is a classic high school film that everyone should own. However, the DVD lacks terribly; the only bonus feature is a commentary made by John Hughes. And the DVD is available in wide screen format.

I highly recommend "Ferris Beuller's Day Off".

Score:
100/100
A+

Great director's commentary
This remains one of the most entertaining director's commentaries available.

Nice
Good movie. Wish I was like him.

Awesome movie
This movie is one of my all time favorites. Who hasn't seen this movie? It rocks! Funny and clever from start to finish. The commentary is great too. ... Read more