Title: Pretty in Pink
Starring: Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy, Jon Cryer, James Spader and Annie Potts
Synopsis: The movies of John Hughes often adhere to a certain formula – a kind of trademark concoction that put them head and shoulders above other films of their kind. That sweet blend of dry humour, intellectual thoughtfulness and a sense of social realism among the young romance is what makes his films, like Pretty in Pink, truly classic. Released in 1986, the film tells the story of Andie Walsh (Ringwald) – a smart and independent working-class girl who struggles to conform in her graduating year of high-school. She is seen as a misfit by almost everyone, due to her distinctive sense of style and her abject disdain against the popular ‘richie’ kids – like arrogant playboy Steff (Spader). Her best friend Duckie (Cryer) is something of a joker who dramatically play-mimes to songs and skips classes because he’s “not emotionally ready” for them. Though underneath it all, he harbours a deep and profound love for Andie, but is too afraid of rejection to tell her. Much to Duckie’s dismay, Andie develops a crush on gentle rich kid, Blane (McCarthy), who is just as smitten and asks her to prom. However, the couple’s opposing social backgrounds make their relationship difficult, as members of both social circles try to intervene and break them apart.
Ultimately, this is a ‘love-conquers-all’ story, in which class barriers are broken and contended with, and individualism and self-confidence is applauded. This inspiring message, along with all the big hairdos, unnervingly trendy costuming and it’s brilliantly retrospective synthpop soundtrack, make Pretty in Pink a brilliant film to escape into on a wintry Monday evening.
Watch if you liked: The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Sixteen Candles, etc.
Rating: 7/10 – It’s a chick-flick through and through; sweet, funny and featuring a whole lotta’ pink – but there’s a realism to it that’s hard not to relate to in some way.
Words by Annie | @cumberbamf