In the mid-1980s, Hollywood was undergoing a transformation, shifting its focus to appeal to a younger audience. This change gave rise to a group of young actors who quickly became household names. In a June 10, 1985, article for New York Magazine, David Blum coined the term “Brat Pack” to describe this ensemble, which included Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Ally Sheedy, and Andrew McCarthy. The name was a playful nod to the Rat Pack of the 1960s, but it also carried a hint of derision, suggesting these actors were not to be taken seriously.
The Brat Pack label was not universally embraced by its members. Andrew McCarthy, in particular, felt the term undermined their credibility. He has since explored the impact of this label in his book “Brat: An ’80s Story” and a documentary titled “Brats,” which streams on Hulu. The documentary features interviews with several Brat Pack members and offers a nostalgic look back at the era, though it also serves as a form of therapy for McCarthy, who grapples with the long-lasting effects of the label.
One intriguing aspect of the Brat Pack story is the inclusion of Timothy Hutton, whom McCarthy refers to as the “godfather of the Brat Pack.” Hutton’s connection to the group is somewhat tenuous, but his early success and influence on the young actors of the time earned him this honorary title. Hutton’s career, marked by an Academy Award win for “Ordinary People” at the age of 20, set a high bar for the Brat Pack members who followed.
Hutton’s role as the godfather of the Brat Pack is not just about his early success but also his mentorship and influence. He was a trailblazer, showing that young actors could achieve critical acclaim and commercial success simultaneously. His presence in the documentary adds a layer of depth, as he reflects on his career and the impact he had on his peers. Hutton’s anecdotes, including his quirky hobby of beekeeping, provide a fascinating glimpse into his life beyond the silver screen.
The Brat Pack era was defined by iconic films like “The Breakfast Club,” “Pretty in Pink,” and “St. Elmo’s Fire.” These movies captured the angst and aspirations of a generation, and the actors who starred in them became symbols of youth and rebellion. However, the Brat Pack label also created a sense of typecasting, making it difficult for some members to break free from their youthful personas. Emilio Estevez, for instance, admitted to having McCarthy removed from a film to avoid being pigeonholed as a Brat Pack actor.
Despite the challenges, many Brat Pack members have found ways to reinvent themselves. Demi Moore, for example, used the experience as a catalyst for personal growth, even sharing that the production of “St. Elmo’s Fire” provided her with a sober companion. Rob Lowe and Ally Sheedy also expressed mixed feelings about the label, acknowledging both its benefits and drawbacks.
The absence of Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson from McCarthy’s documentary is notable. Ringwald, in particular, has offered insightful commentary on the era, including a brilliant New Yorker essay that reexamines the films of her youth in the context of the #MeToo movement. Their perspectives would have added valuable context to the documentary, but their absence does not diminish the overall impact of the film.
Ultimately, the Brat Pack label was a double-edged sword. It brought fame and fortune but also created lasting stereotypes. McCarthy’s documentary serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the importance of resilience. While the Brat Pack members may not have been as close-knit as the public imagined, their collective impact on Hollywood and popular culture is undeniable.
Timothy Hutton’s role as the godfather of the Brat Pack underscores the interconnectedness of Hollywood’s young stars in the 1980s. His early achievements and influence provided a blueprint for success, even as the Brat Pack label complicated their careers. Hutton’s story, along with those of his peers, offers a compelling look at the highs and lows of fame, making the Brat Pack era a fascinating chapter in Hollywood history.
