The Best Brat Pack Movies
The Brat Pack, a group of young actors and actresses who appeared in many films together, dominated Hollywood in the 1980s. Their films were primarily teen-oriented coming-of-age stories involving young romance, troubled youth, and plenty of fast times. If you've ever asked yourself, "Who was in the Brat Pack?" You're in the right place to find out.
The Brat Pack refers to the constellation of actors that appeared in either St. Elmo’s Fire or The Breakfast Club. Notable Brat Pack members include Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Anthony Michael Hall, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, and Molly Ringwald. They really made some great '80s movies together.
On this list of the best Brat Pack films of the 1980s, you’ll find memorable titles like Pretty in Pink, The Outsiders, and Weird Science. Vote up your favorite Brat Pack movies below, and vote down any that you think other Brat Pack fans should skip.
- Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: John Hughes
Five high school students from different social backgrounds are thrown together for Saturday detention and discover they have much more in common than they ever could have imagined. With insightful dialogue, memorable character development, and powerful performances by Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, and others, the film remains one of the most iconic representations of teenage angst and struggle. A coming-of-age classic that transcends generations, this movie remains relevant and poignant today.
- Matt Dillon, C. Thomas Howell, Ralph Macchio
- Released: 1983
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
Based on S.E. Hinton's novel, this powerful drama delves into the rivalry between two groups of teenagers, the Greasers and the Socs, in a small Oklahoma town in the early 1960s. The talented ensemble cast, including Tom Cruise, Matt Dillon, and Rob Lowe, deliver passionate performances, portraying the desperate lives of their characters amid the backdrop of social class conflict. Through its gritty realism and poignant storytelling, the film highlights the destructive nature of gang violence and the importance of familial bonds.
- Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: John Hughes
Matthew Broderick stars as Ferris Bueller, a charming high school senior who fakes illness to enjoy an epic day off from school, dragging his best friend and girlfriend along for the adventure. The film brilliantly showcases the allure of breaking rules and seizing the day, capturing the spirit of teenage rebellion. Bueller's charismatic antics and unforgettable one-liners make it a must-watch classic that continues to resonate with new audiences.
- Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Michael Schoeffling
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John Hughes
Molly Ringwald shines as Samantha Baker, a high school sophomore whose family forgets her birthday in the midst of wedding plans, while she navigates her crush on a popular senior and the advances of a geeky admirer. The film blends humor and heartache to create a heartfelt and touching portrayal of adolescent life, striking a chord with audiences young and old. Director John Hughes masterfully captures the complexity of teenage emotions in this timeless coming-of-age tale.
- Molly Ringwald, Jon Cryer, Andrew McCarthy
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: Howard Deutch
Molly Ringwald plays the role of Andie, a working-class girl who gets caught in a love triangle between her childhood best friend and a wealthy suitor. This heartwarming coming-of-age story explores themes of class divide, friendship, and self-worth, while offering a relatable portrayal of teenage relationships and self-discovery. With its memorable 80s fashion and soundtrack, the film remains a beloved favorite among fans.
- Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Andrew McCarthy
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Joel Schumacher
This film follows an ensemble cast of recent college graduates as they navigate the challenges of adulthood, dealing with relationships, career choices, and personal growth. The talented young actors, including Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, and Emilio Estevez, create dynamic and endearing characters that struggle to find their place in the world. Its evocative exploration of post-college life make it a resonant classic for generations to come.