You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried: The Brat Pack, John Hughes, and Their Impact on a Generation

It is hard to fathom that director John Hughes has been gone for almost a decade, let alone the fact that the movies he created are over 30 years old at this point. As a proud member of Gen-X this book was an absolute treasure to find and pleasure to read. "The Breakfast Club," "Pretty in Pink," and so many other of John Hughes classic films are my favorite movies of all time and they defined my generation. If you liked these movies at the original time of their release and found yourself connecting with the talented actors and actresses in them in a way you never connected to other film stars of the day, you must read this book. Susannah Gora manages to do so much more than write a book of feel good nostalgia. She gives a detailed account of the career of John Hughes, taking you step by step through his best films, what made him special, how he found talent like Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall, and then gets in depth commentary from the actors themselves. I have watched all of these movies over and over again and thought I knew everything there was to know about the infamous "Brat Pack." After reading this book I realize I knew very little about the artistry involved in creating and producing all of these films, and I have so much more appreciation and respect for Ally Sheedy, John Cusack, Andrew McCarthy and Matthew Broderick. I guess there will never be another time for us Generation X-ers like the mid to late 1980's, and i can understand how these actors get tired of the Brat Pack tag. Still, if any of them are reading this review i hope they can understand how much they meant to an entire generation. You only belong to one generation and Susannah Gora has beautifully documented my own.

Perfect transaction a+

I was in high school in the 1980s, and of course saw all of the John Hughes "Brat Pack" films. Recently, I've been re-watching some of them, and I got curious about how they were made, their legacy, and what happened to some of the stars. This book is a very fun, fast read, with loads of details about the making of each film. I wouldn't recommend it for hard core film buffs who want to know all the nitty gritty of film making, but there was enough information about film making to interest a regular movie-goer like me. For example, Hughes directed sitting or standing near his actors, rather than watching the film unfold on a monitor several feet away. He also took a lot of advice and suggestions from his actors, like when Ally Sheedy suggested that her sandwich in The Breakfast Club me made of Captain Crunch, so she could be loud and angry even while eating.There's very little here about what became of the actors after their star-making turns in Hughes films, but lots of interviews with them showing how they now feel about having worked with him, and what made him special as a writer and director. The chapter on the coining of the term "Brat Pack" and the subsequent strain it put on those relationships was fascinating.The two criticisms I would have are (1) it's really quite fawning. Anyone who gets annoyed at the thought that Hughes single-handedly shaped a generation, or who doesn't think that every single thing about every single Hughes film is groundbreaking and special, may not like this book. Except for Say Anything, there is little mention of other contemporary directors or films and (2) the inclusion of a chapter on Say Anything, which I cannot figure out, as Hughes had nothing to do with that film. I loved Say Anything, but it is a Cameron Crowe film. Why is it in this book?This is a very interesting and fun read, much like a NYT Sunday Magazine or Vanity Fair article, and if you are interested in John Hughes and his films, I highly recommend it.

I came across Gora’s book after seeing her interview in Andrew McCarthy’s wonderful documentary “Brat.” In "You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried: The Brat Pack, John Hughes, and Their Impact on a Generation," Susannah Gora crafts a captivating and insightful exploration of the iconic films that defined a generation. Through meticulous research, engaging interviews, and a keen understanding of the cultural zeitgeist, Gora weaves a narrative that is both nostalgic and illuminating.The book delves deep into the production histories of classic teen films like "The Breakfast Club," "Sixteen Candles," and "Pretty in Pink." Gora's passion for the subject matter is palpable as she uncovers fascinating behind-the-scenes anecdotes, casting decisions, and the creative processes that brought these stories to life. It's a treasure trove of information for any film enthusiast or fan of these beloved movies.What sets this book apart is its wealth of firsthand accounts. Gora has conducted extensive interviews with key players, including actors, directors, writers, and producers. These interviews provide a rare glimpse into the personal experiences and perspectives of the individuals who shaped these iconic films. Their reflections offer a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and creative tensions that were inherent in the filmmaking process.Beyond the individual films, Gora skillfully situates them within the broader cultural context of the 1980s. She examines how these movies captured the anxieties, dreams, and aspirations of a generation coming of age in a rapidly changing world. These films weren't just entertainment; they were cultural touchstones that reflected and shaped the identities of countless teenagers.While the book is undeniably nostalgic, it avoids excessive sentimentality. Gora's writing is sharp, witty, and often insightful. She acknowledges the films' flaws and limitations while celebrating their enduring appeal. This balanced approach adds depth and credibility to her analysis.Perhaps most importantly, "You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried" is a love letter to the art of filmmaking. Gora's enthusiasm for the creative process is infectious. She reminds us of the magic that happens when talented individuals collaborate to create something that resonates with audiences for generations to come. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of these iconic films."You Couldn't Ignore Me If You Tried" is an essential read for anyone interested in film history, cultural studies, or the enduring appeal of teen movies. Susannah Gora's meticulous research, engaging writing, and insightful analysis make this book a standout contribution to the field. Whether you're revisiting these beloved films or discovering them for the first time, Gora's book will deepen your appreciation for their artistry and cultural significance.

Great book!

This is a great read, I made it last as long as I could! This really goes into detail about the making of these films (Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, Some Kind Of Wonderful, Pretty In Pink, Say Anything & St. Elmos Fire) and puts the movies into the context of the time they were made. Much is discussed regarding the negative impact of being referred to as the 'Brat Pack' but ultimately all the actors and filmmakers went on to great things, but not always greater. These are classic timeless films and this book honours them well.Most of the leading players are interviewed with only a few exceptions. I would recommend reading each part while listening to that particular films soundtrack and then watching the film before you move onto the next chapter. This way, the book lasts longer and gives you the opportunity to really appreciate each movies merits.

Wie habe ich die Filme als Jugendliche geliebt! Die "Brat-Pack"-Movies behalten auch nach Jahrzehnten ihren Wert, auch heute noch stehen sie für dieses ganz besondere Lebensgefühl in der schwierigen Jugendzeit, gehen einfühlsam mit Problemen der Protagonisten um und haben darüberhinaus noch einen hohen Unterhaltungswert, ohne in belanglosen Humor abzudriften. Dass es zu diesen Filmen und den Darstellern bzw. Regisseur nun auch ein solches Buch gibt, das Hintergründe erzählt und Einblick in Entstehung der Filme und Gedanken der Macher und Schauspieler gibt, macht mich richtig froh.Es ist problemlos auch mit Schulenglisch zu lesen und ist dennoch anspruchsvoll geschrieben. Dieses längst fällige Werk setzt diesen Meilensteinen der Jugendfilmgeschichte ein würdiges Denkmal.

fantastic for anyone who was a teen in the 80s

I loved this. Susannah Gora is scholarly and painstaking, she includes great interviews and assumes nothing. Sometimes there's an element of repetitiousness in those interviews because the subjects have analysed and discussed their own lives to the point of overlapping, but Gora lets them talk and doesn't have any pre-cooked theories that she tries to fit people to. She has put in lots of incredibly interesting details I hadn't read anywhere else. She loves the films the way you do and you will love the films more after reading her book.