7. Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986)
Before I even begin, let me just state: I dont hate this movie. I actually really like it. However, I dont feel that its worthy of the adoration and film worship that it receives. Let me explain: John Hughes was like the teen whisperer in the '80s: he managed to capture the malaise of youth, in all its mood swings, apathy, rebellion, etc. He created a memorable, defining character in Ferris Bueller. But at certain points, and not only in this film, Hughes can get a little heavy handed, preachy if you will. For instance, Camerons speech at the end when he kills his fathers Porsche: I am not going to sit on my a** as the events that affect me unfold to determine the course of my life. I'm going to take a stand. I'm going to defend it. Right or wrong, I'm going to defend it. Whoa Cameron, thats a little much. Youve barely said two words the entire film and it comes pouring out of you in a line that could have been in an early draft of the Gettysburg Address. Also Cameron has done nothing during the course of the day that really warrants the sudden spike in self-awareness that he suddenly acquired. Sure he rebelled against his dad, but only because his friend bullied him into it. On top of the preachiness, the films female characters are one-dimensional (either they are there to love Ferris or hate him), and all of the adults are too stupid to function (which could be a statement, but if it is, then Ferris isnt really doing anything exceptionally clever). Instead, watch equally deserving Hughes films,
Sixteen Candles and
Weird Science. Theres no soapbox in these films; just classic teenage antics and unexpected moments of insight. Here's a brilliant
Weird Science clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9GBuciv20A