Who doesn’t love movies from the 80’s?…Anyone? Anyone? Anyone? One such fine example is “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”, (1986) directed by John Hughes and stars Matthew Broderick as a high school senior from Chicago who creates an elaborate set up for being sick to skip a day off school. Bueller drafts his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara) for the adventure.
Throughout the movie, Bueller is being tracked down by the dean of students. If only real school administrators handled their jobs with such passion. He goes above and beyond the call of duty as he is attacked by both Bueller’s dog and his sister, all in an effort to prove Bueller isn’t really home sick.
Their day free from school is spent going to a baseball game at Wrigley, dining at a fancy restaurant, visiting Sears Tower, the Art Institute and the Chicago Board of Trade. All of which are entertaining, but since they live in Chicago I’m left wondering why those things couldn’t be done on a weekend or during the summer? I know…I know, I think too much, being rebellious makes the activities more pleasurable and results in a better movie.
A memorable scene occurs when Bueller takes over a float during a downtown Chicago parade and lip synchs ‘Danke Schoen.’ and ‘Twist and Shout.’ A crowd of thousands gets involved, I have never understood how the musical number fits into the movie, but have never seen so many people enthused by a parade.
The film features an appearance by Charlie Sheen in one of his first roles, while he was still sane, and Edie McClurg who seems to have played every secretary or receptionist needed in the 80’s.
Ben Stein also deserves mention as the monotone teacher who famously recites the movies most recognized and imitated lines..”Bueller…Bueller…Bueller?
Broderick’s career was launched by his performance and Ruck would later co-star in the television series, “Spin City.” A sitcom, starring Jennifer Aniston, followed the initial release of the film and aired for one season.
