Labels Stripped Away

Rating: 9/10 (3 June 2019)

Without a doubt, John Hughes is one of the most talented directors of the century. His raw talents are only further displayed in this blockbuster film, "Breakfast Club." Released in 1985, this immediate box office success is still regarded today as the film that defined the decade. Much like in his earlier films such as, "Sixteen Candles," Hughes yet again manages to delve deep into the mind of a teenager. He directs with such authenticity, it feels as if he travelled back in time to view everything through the lens of a highschooler. He accurately portrays how teenagers are in reality by displaying the five highschool stereotypes of teens, and then knocking those stereotypes down completely. In the beginning, the audience is introduced to five characters: the jock (Emilio Estevez), the princess (Molly Ringwald), the freak (Ally Sheedy), the rebel (Judd Nelson), and the nerd (Anthony Michael Hall). These characters each represent a different stereotype established by their script, appearance, and actions. Eventually, the audience discovers they are not as entirely different as they seem. Combined with John Hughes' superior directing, these five incredibly talented actors contribute to this film's immense success, fame, and timelessness.
During the first parts of the movie, we learn that these five high-schoolers are being held captive in Saturday detention for various reasons. Through various fights and shenanigans, these characters establish first impressions most identical to their labels. However, we learn that these five, seemingly very different teenagers have much more in common than we think. After excessive bickering and various explosive antics, they all gather around to resolve their differences. Unarguably one of the most powerful scenes of the decade, the five characters tear down their emotional barriers to reveal their truest inner-self. This scene proves that it only takes a heart-to-heart conversation to solve any issues. We discover that despite their differences, these characters share the same fears, desires, and emotions deep down.
Hughes prompts the audience to question society as well as themselves. Why do we enforce such stereotypes on teenagers? How are these stereotypes displayed? Do these formulated opinions influence our initial judgement of these characters? While watching this movie, it is only instinctive human nature to categorize these individuals based on societal perceptions. For example, take John Bender- the rebel. From the beginning, we come to the realization that he is the "bad guy." Along with his disheveled appearance, his vulgar nature and knack for violence contribute to his label. With his nonchalant attitude and coined phrase, "eat my shorts," the audience instinctively institutes a label. However, that label is eventually stripped away to reveal a character that the audience can sympathize with, and perhaps even relate to. Another example is Claire Standish, a popular socialite played by award winning actress Molly Ringwald. We assume in the beginning that the only things her heart desires is popularity and shopping for new clothes. Eventually, we learn that her shallowness and arrogance is merely a facade. Her label strips away to reveal an empathetic, soft-hearted young teenager just trying to fit in this world.
Hughes demonstrates the enormous power of labels. But when we take off our labels instilled on us by society, we unify as one.