We all need to experience being “Pretty in Pink”
Andrew McCarthy, Molly Ringwald, and Jon Cryer in 1986’s Pretty in Pink. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount
February 9, 2022
We’ve all wanted to be in the position of someone who has the opportunity to go out with a sweet, good looking guy, especially now since it seems hard to find a decent one. Well, it’s easy to live out your daydreams thanks to Andy (Molly Ringwald) in the 1986 breathtaking romantic comedy, “Pretty in Pink” directed by John Huges.
What we don’t expect, however, is the difficult decisions created by the desirable situation. Andy is forced to make many decisions throughout the movie, some which we would happily make for her. These difficult decisions are primarily caused by the big conflict: social classes. Andy is also faced with the decision of choosing between her best friend and a guy she has just met not too long ago. While the decision she should make is clear, it is crucial to try and put yourself in Andy’s shoes. What would you do if you had the opportunity to go out with a guy you really like?
In the beginning of the movie we see Andy getting ready for school. More is revealed when we understand that she doesn’t live high end. In fact, we learn more when we see a discussion between Andy and her loving, supportive father, Jack Walsh (Harry Dean Stanton). When she arrives at school she is living our dream, being noticed by someone too good to be true. Afterwards, she is met with her brother-like friend, Duckie (Jon Cryer). After school Andy is at her job that many people would fight for, a record store with a cool owner, Iona (Annie Potts) whom she is able to come to for advice. Later that same day, the attractive guy, Blaine (Andrew McCarthy), shows up at her work.
As the movie continues, we learn some not-so-great information that alters the course of the characters.
Problems also face the beloved Duckie and Blaine. Duckie comes from a similar background as Andy, hence why he and Andy have the perfect, close brother and sister relationship. This causes problems once Blaine and Andy show interest in each other. Blaine, on the other hand, is faced with problems of his own despite coming from a wealthy family. From the beginning of the movie we see the differences of class status, not only between Andy and Blaine, but also between other characters that hang out with them. This causes conflict throughout the movie.
We see unexpected events take place that do not surprise the audience. However, it is these events that make the movie better. The plot is predictable in an unpredictable way. You don’t know what’s happening next while secretly knowing what’s going to happen, making the movie more interesting, compelling you to crawl onto the edge of your seat.

While Baine and Duckie may not be attractive to many people, it is not hard not to envy, pity, and get mad at Andy for the situation she is in and the decisions she makes.
Director John Hughes has mastered the way to entertain us all while making us jealous at the same time. He had previously directed the unusually captivating 80s comedy-drama, “The Breakfast Club” in 1985.
“Pretty In Pink” is a top 80s movie for people of all interests. If you like bashing movies, this one’s for you. If you like screaming and crying, this movie is for you. If you enjoy relaxing moves, you can count on this movie to help you relax. And most importantly, if you want to live out your daydreams, “Pretty in Pink” is the perfect movie for you.