A ground-breaking film back in 1984, this launched the slew of romantic comedy teen movies that followed (previously a ‘teen’ movie meant one of those ‘18’ certificate films featuring busty co-eds like Porky’s and its spin-offs).
This film also marked the first collaboration between writer/director/producer John Hughes and young actress Molly Ringwald (they also worked together on The Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink). She stars as Samantha, who is discovering that turning sixteen is anything but sweet. Her family have forgotten her birthday, the school geek (Anthony Michael Hall) is pursuing her, while the guy she has a crush on just happens to be the most popular boy in school.
A mixture of teen awkwardness and broad comedy, this is a fun little film, featuring a terrific central performance from Ringwald in her first leading role. A treat.
Is Sixteen Candles suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
None.
If you like this, why not try: Pretty In Pink, The Breakfast Club, Some Kind Of Wonderful, Say Anything, Never Been Kissed,