Andrew McCarthy, a former ‘Brat Pack’ actor who spent a decade honing his directorial talents in episodic television, now brings his unique perspective to features in the appropriately titled ‘Brats’ from Hulu. The term ‘Brat Pack’ was a standard reference among young movie enthusiasts in the 1980s, first coined by writer David Blum after witnessing a group of young actors being overwhelmed by admirers at the Hard Rock Cafe in Los Angeles. The core members of the Brat Pack were often recognized for their appearances in the ensemble casts of two specific films released in 1985: John Hughes’s ‘The Breakfast Club’ and Joel Schumacher’s ‘St. Elmo’s Fire ‘.
Amid the glitz and glamour of 1980s Hollywood, a cohort of young, talented actors emerged as symbolic figures of their generation. This group, famously known as the “Brat Pack,” captivated audiences with unforgettable performances in a succession of iconic films that epitomized an era. In “Brats,” director Andrew McCarthy offers an in-depth exploration of these rising stars’ lives, detailing their extraordinary ascent to fame and the challenges they faced along the way.
The documentary revolves around intimate interviews with members of the Brat Pack as they retrospect on how their swift rise to stardom shaped their lives. Esteemed actors such as Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, and other notable talents like Lea Thompson and Jon Cryer converse about the pressures of fame, industry challenges, and the enduring connections established during that exhilarating period. “Brats” portrays a group of young actors who achieved instant stardom and grappled with the challenges associated with it, using a mix of archival footage, behind-the-scenes insights, and candid conversations.
The narrative explores themes of friendship and heartbreak, leaving a lasting impression on Hollywood’s landscape from that era. The absence of perspectives from Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson is regrettable, and it would have been valuable to hear from underrepresented minority actors who were limited to television roles at that time. However, including Timothy Hutton’s perspective adds significant value, given his distinction as one of the youngest recipients of the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
As the credits roll, viewers are entranced by the captivating visuals and evocative soundtrack, which stir feelings of sentimentality and appreciation. This immersive experience prompts them to reflect on the enduring humanity and complex emotions portrayed by celebrated figures of past cinematic epochs, fostering a deep connection to storytelling and filmmaking.
Final Grade: B
“Brats” is available to stream on Hulu
For their second single, the group presented a ballad entitled “Feels Like The First Time.” Once again, Greene handles the lyrics, while Neville Hodge is responsible for production duties. Greene begins the song with robust energy, proclaiming his love for the lady. Greene’s group members provide stellar work on the background vocals, and the songs eschew nineties R&B without going into crass vulgarity.
The ballad was composed by Michael Masser and lyricist Gerry Goffin, and it was first recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1981. Eight years later, Natalie Cole covered the song, shortening the title. It became the fourth single from her twelfth album, “Good to Be Back.”
Braxton’s vocal talent is perfect on the standards “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song.” However, like any good R&B Christmas album, it is the soulful yuletide bops where Braxton truly shines. The album’s first single, “Snowflakes of Love,” is instrumental of Earl Klugh’s “Now We’re One”. Braxton’s lush vocals encapsulate the warmth and joy of romantic love amidst a wintery backdrop.