Every John Hughes Teen Film Ranked Worst To Best

The Hughes teen films collectively defined the genre, but no individual film in the bunch did this quite like The Breakfast Club. In retrospect, it shouldn't have worked. Five students in detention together discussing their emotional struggles? Not a prom or car park in sight? Surely this can't be the definitive teen movie of all time?

Against the odds, it is. Every one of the characters is written so well, and despite the confinement to practically only one setting the direction is so superb, that the audience is kept spellbound by the events on screen.

The interaction between the main characters is the highlight here, with every dialogue full of wit, realism, and drama. Much of the credit goes to the five leads, who are to this day the definitive Brain, Athlete, Basket-Case, Princess, and Criminal of any teen film.

The Breakfast Club has resonated with teenagers since it was first released, and it shows no sign of becoming irrelevant any time soon. Nearly every teenager can relate to at least one of the characters, and this is a testament to John Hughes' genius as a writer and director.