Intro:
If you grew up watching John Hughes movies, then you know exactly how they make you feel. His works are a blend of warmth, dry humor, and a dash of nostalgia that make you wish for the simpler times. John Hughes, who left us too early at 59, is known for classics like Home Alone and Pretty in Pink. But while he wrote these films, he didn’t direct them. In his short but impactful career, he directed eight films. Today, we are going to rank these movies, focusing on his directorial works. So, here’s the countdown:
8. Curly Sue (1991)
Sitting at the bottom of the list is his last directorial venture, Curly Sue. While Hughes wrote and produced many films after this, he never directed again. Unfortunately, this film simply couldn’t live up to the expectation. Jim Belushi’s performance as a con man protecting a seven-year-old orphan just wasn’t as engaging as one would hope.
7. Sixteen Candles (1984)
Next on the list is Hughes’ first film, Sixteen Candles. While it holds a special place as his debut work, it hasn’t aged gracefully. Some of the humor misses the mark and in certain places, it feels unrealistic in its portrayal of teenagers.
6. She’s Having a Baby (1988)
Staying out of teen movies for a while, Hughes directed ‘She’s Having a Baby.’ This romantic comedy is a light-hearted watch, tracing a couple’s journey from their wedding to the birth of their first child.
5. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
In fifth place, we have Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. It’s a fun and breezy film mainly because Matthew Broderick is absolutely delightful, despite his character being somewhat obnoxious.
4. Weird Science (1985)
Weird Science is an outrageous comedy about two teenagers creating their ‘dream woman’ through a computer. Despite being silly and superficial, the movie gets the job done and offers unabashed entertainment.
3. Uncle Buck (1989)
Coming in third is Uncle Buck, a true showcase of John Candy’s comedic genius. This movie about an eccentric man babysitting his nieces and nephew managed to capture audiences’ hearts and is definitely a highlight in Hughes’ directorial journey.
2. The Breakfast Club (1985)
The second spot goes to none other than The Breakfast Club. The film depicts five different kinds of teenagers, stuck in a library. Even though there are several awkward moments, it’s a movie that leaves an impact. By the end of the film, you realize how powerfully some moments are crafted.
1. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
Finally, topping the list is Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. A movie about two adults trying to get home for Thanksgiving has the hilarious Steve Martin and John Candy in the lead. Hughes’ best film shows his ability to beautifully blend comedy and sentimentality.
Wrap-up:
Every film on this list shows the talent and versatility of John Hughes. His directorial ventures may have been few, but they left an indelible impact on our hearts. Whether we agree or disagree on the rankings, one thing is for sure: John Hughes was a genius who continues to live on through his movies. From high school angst to adult complexities, he captured it all. Let us know your ranking, and keep celebrating the legendary John Hughes.
