The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club, Written and Directed by John Hughes. Released February 15, 1985. Distributed by Universal Pictures.

Plot Summary:

The story begins with 5 very different teenagers in detention. They follow several high school stereotypes: the athlete, the brain, the princess, the basketcase, and the criminal. The kids start their detention on a Saturday morning and while it’s clear that they recognize each other, none of them seem to be close friends. Throughout the course of the day, they learn more about each other and begin to understand that there’s more to someone’s life than just being a stereotype.

Critical Evaluation:

This movie has been revered by teens and adults alike since its release. John Hughes made a name for himself in the 1980s as a premier writer and director of teen movies and this is one of the standouts. It features actors who would go on to become known as the Brat Pack, and many of them acted again with each other in other Hughes films. The main lesson of learning to overcome your judgements of other people based on outward appearance is an important one.

Information about the Director:

From the director's imdb page:

John Hughes was born on February 18, 1950 in Lansing, Michigan, USA as John Wilden Hughes Jr. He was a writer and producer, known for Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) and The Breakfast Club (1985). He was married to Nancy Ludwig. He died on August 6, 2009 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA.

Curriculum Ties:

Judging people for what’s inside, not what’s outside

Challenge Issues:

Discussion of sex and drugs

Creating a Defense:

• Make sure you have thorough knowledge of the library’s selection policy as well as a copy on hand. Your insight as well as pointing out specific portions of the policy will be helpful in discussion with the patron.
• Always have the library Bill of Rights close to show the patron your library’s commitment to providing all kinds of information.
• Have some reveiws on hand, both good and bad, from respected sources like YALSA or Amazon so both you and the patron can gain an understanding of both sides of the issue.
• Make sure you’re familiar with the books that might be challenged. Be prepared to discuss the book’s intended audience, its educational significance, purpose, and also some alternative titles to read.
• Don’t get defensive. The librarian can’t take the challenge personally and either party getting upset will cause the discussion to devolve into a fight.
• LISTEN. Even if you don’t agree with the patron, their views are as valid as yours and should be respected.

Rating:

R

Why is the material included?:

This film is centered around teenagers who learn to like each other despite their differences and that’s always a good lesson.

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