BROKAW: ‘Brats’ takes a deep dive into 1980s Young Hollywood | News, Sports, Jobs

The 1980s witnessed the rise of a new generation in Hollywood, with films like “The Breakfast Club,” “St. Elmo’s Fire,” and “Pretty in Pink” capturing the zeitgeist. At the center of this youthful movement, a group of actors became known as “The Brat Pack,” a label that, despite initial resistance, has endured in pop culture history.

The Birth of a Label

In 1985, journalist David Blum coined the term “The Brat Pack” in an article for New York magazine. While the moniker arguably boosted the actors’ visibility and fanbase, many of those included initially resented the branding. Andrew McCarthy, one of the actors associated with the group, has described the label as “horrible,” expressing a shared dislike among his peers for being categorized.

A Reluctant Collective

The actors’ aversion stemmed from a desire to be recognized for their individual work and dedication, rather than as members of a collective. Emilio Estevez, for example, passed on a potential film project with McCarthy specifically to avoid being further typecast as part of “the pack,” despite believing in the script’s quality.

Defining the “Pack”

Determining who exactly constituted “The Brat Pack” remains somewhat ambiguous. Actors frequently associated with the group include Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Jon Cryer, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Lea Thompson, Timothy Hutton, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Anthony Michael Hall, and Mare Winningham. However, Estevez, Lowe, Moore, Sheedy, Hall, and Ringwald are often considered the core members.

Echoes of the Past

The “Brat Pack” phenomenon draws parallels to earlier groups of actors, such as “The Rat Pack” of the 1950s and 60s, which included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. Unlike their predecessors, who often socialized outside of work and even collaborated on films like “Ocean’s Eleven,” the 1980s “Brat Pack” members did not maintain a similar social circle.

Revisiting the Label

A new documentary, “Brats,” explores the impact of the label through interviews with the actors themselves, as well as industry professionals like casting directors, screenwriters, and critics. Participants reflect on how the moniker has been perceived over time, acknowledging that while initially unwelcome, it has become a significant part of their legacy.

Today, many fans view the term “The Brat Pack” nostalgically, but the actors of the 1980s initially resisted the categorization, prioritizing their individual artistry. Forty years later, a more nuanced perspective has emerged.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the initial reaction to the “Brat Pack” label?

Many of the actors initially despised the label, feeling it diminished their individual work and contributions to the film industry.

Who were considered the core members of “The Brat Pack”?

Estevez, Lowe, Moore, Sheedy, Hall, and Ringwald are frequently cited as the core members of the group.

How does the new documentary “Brats” approach the topic?

The documentary features interviews with the actors and industry professionals, exploring the impact of the label and its lasting legacy.

Considering the enduring cultural impact of these films and actors, do you think labels can ultimately enhance or detract from an artist’s legacy?