The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club (1985) — John Hughes' Iconic Coming-of-Age Classic

Five teenagers. One Saturday detention. A lifetime of assumptions challenged. Written and directed by John Hughes, The Breakfast Club is a funny, moving and unforgettable portrait of teenage identity, friendship and the pressure to fit in.

Detailed Story Synopsis

On a Saturday morning at Shermer High School, five students from very different social circles report for an all-day detention under the watchful eye of strict assistant principal Richard Vernon. There's Claire Standish, the popular princess; Andrew Clark, the star athlete; Brian Johnson, the academically driven brain; Allison Reynolds, the quiet outsider; and John Bender, the rebellious troublemaker.

Initially separated by stereotypes, the teenagers trade insults, challenge authority and struggle to make it through the day. But as conversations deepen, each reveals insecurities, painful family expectations and fears about the future. Through arguments, confessions and unexpected moments of humor, they begin to recognize how much they have in common beneath their labels.

By the end of detention, a simple essay assignment becomes a statement about individuality and the ways adults misunderstand young people. Set almost entirely inside a high school, this beloved 1980s classic balances sharp comedy with heartfelt drama and features the unforgettable song “Don't You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds.

Cast & Characters

• Emilio Estevez — Andrew Clark, the athlete
• Anthony Michael Hall — Brian Johnson, the brain
• Judd Nelson — John Bender, the criminal
• Molly Ringwald — Claire Standish, the princess
• Ally Sheedy — Allison Reynolds, the basket case
• Paul Gleason — Richard Vernon, assistant principal
• John Kapelos — Carl Reed, the school janitor
• Ron Dean — Mr. Clark, Andrew's father
• Tim Gamble — Mr. Johnson, Brian's father
• Mercedes Hall — Mrs. Johnson, Brian's mother

Movie Information

Original Release: 1985

Writer / Director: John Hughes

Studio: Universal Pictures / A&M Films

Rating: R

Runtime: Approximately 97 minutes

Original Language: English

Edition Details

Format: Blu-ray

Edition: 30th Anniversary Edition

Condition: Used

Enjoy the film in high-definition Blu-ray format in this anniversary release. Exact extras and audio specifications depend on the disc package.