BRATS

7/9/2024

Andrew McCarthy’s latest documentary had the potential to be a nostalgic masterpiece, reminiscent of an era that defined a generation. However, it ultimately fell short, primarily due to McCarthy's involvement. As a fan of the films of the 'Brat Pack', I believe this documentary missed the mark in several key areas. This documentary, clocking in at ninety minutes, feels like an extended exercise in grievance rather than an insightful exploration of the "Brat Pack" phenomenon. McCarthy’s evident resentment toward the term "Brat Pack" permeates the film, transforming what could have been a celebratory reflection into a personal vendetta. Rob Lowe emerges as the standout element of this documentary. His pragmatic and almost philosophical take on the "Brat Pack" label illustrates why his

7/17/2024

Most Gen Xers will remember with fondness the infamous “Brat Pack,” a group of young stars who ruled the entertainment world back in the mid-1980s. Nobody was bigger than these actors, including Rob Lowe, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, and Judd Nelson. But with that superstardom and unfortunate moniker came decades of sadness, regret, and pain. One of the original members of the Pack, Andrew McCarthy, decided to make a film to deal with the group’s shared experiences after being collectively labeled by an article in New York magazine in 1985. The result is “Brats,” a deeply personal and surprisingly insightful documentary. This is a terrific film, especially if you’re interested in the subjects. McCarthy has a personal connection that gives him more intimate