Judd Nelson, Emilio Estevez, Anthony Micheal Hall, Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy
One of the two infamous 'Brat Pack' pictures, this film was one of the best movies from the 80's I have seen. Also, it must've been one of the cheapest to make. (There was only one set)
Set in a school library one saturday morning (hey! Is that the ABC network's line?) five high-shcoolers have to sit through a disgusting nine-hour detention (They all have different reasons, I won't tell you what they are...). They are the typical school stereotypes. The jock (Estevez), the prom-queen (Ringwald), the brain (Hall), the criminal (Nelson) and the weirdo (Sheedy). They are forced to learn about each others lives and relationships at school and with their parents. By four o'clock they all are closer than most friends, even through their various social differences.
If you've gone to high school, you'll relate to something in this movie. Even if you don't fit into any category, chances are you know the angst of being a teenager, and if you were a teenager in the 80's, the angst of interesting clothing choices.
Out of all of the actors in this movie (including the principal and the janitor) I was most impressed by Judd Nelson (Suddenly Susan). Although I like him in Brooke Shield's sitcom, his obvious acting talents were put to excellent use in this movie. Also on my favourites list was Ally Sheedy, who played Alison, the girl who ate a carmel corn-pixie stick sandwhich (nutrition be damned!). On the take it or leave it list, Emilio Estevez and Anthony Michael Hall. Molly Ringwald was in the 'oh her' category.
If you grew up in the 80's, had most of your experiences in the 80's, this movie is for you. If you're old enough to remember them, you'll enjoy this movie. If you are a product of the 90's, then this movie might seem a little gaudy in appearance, but the theme is still the same. It's High School. It hasn't changed that much.
The one thing that made me nostalgic, was the bit at the end where two of the characters exchange earrings. I did that! When I think about it now, however, it makes me cringe and think about all the obvious diseases my ex-boyfriends were undoubtedly carrying.
My advice: rent this movie. Savour it. It's a part of your history, and it's a good movie. It made me want to see the other Brat Pack film, St. Elmo's Fire. Now, if you'll all excuse me, I have to go disenfect my earlobes.