An interesting point I forgot to say was that Brian is a member of three different clubs at school. I suspect that is partly a thing about the pressure of doing all the dilligent things he's supposed to but it also says something about a quest to try and belong, to find a group. He's been joining lots of groups in an attempt to find his place, yet being hesitant to properly express himself within those groups in case it leads to him being rejected. (Which actually is a similar point to the idea he hasn't really put himself out there romantically/maintains a level of innocence for fear of properly trying and facing rejection). He's joined three different clubs but its in becoming a member of The Breakfast Club that he properly learns how to belong and how to let himself have an impact on the group. Just an interesting possible interpretation, there. Patreon link - www.patreon.com/mylittlethoughttree

@trinaq

3 жыл бұрын

That's a fascinating interpretation, I never really thought about Brian's multiple clubs in that manner before! 🤔💚

@bowdencable7094

3 жыл бұрын

I always assumed he was part of a bunch of clubs because you’re supposed to in order to get into a top-tier university. Yet another thing his parents make him do.

@BrookeSimmons

3 жыл бұрын

My Little Thought Tree I enjoyed the video overall but I really disagree with this in particular and I think it highlights something you may have missed. When Brian is listing his clubs, Claire dismisses them as “academic clubs”, ie nerd clubs, not the social clubs that “count” to her. That is a powerful statement about how American school society in the 1980s saw smart kids. Completely othered, like a second school running in parallel to the “normal” kids. I can’t recall any evidence Brian doesn’t have friends or a social group - in fact there’s evidence to the contrary, more on which in a moment - but it’s not a group any other same-age character in TBC cares about. If Claire came to the chess club she would feel just as much a fish out of water as a Brian initially does with the others in detention. She might handle it differently, but she wouldn’t feel she belonged, whereas I strongly suspect Brian does belong in those clubs. I doubt he has trouble asserting his personhood among the other nerds. None of the other nerds are likely to physically threaten him and they won’t make fun of him for being smart, so he doesn’t have to protect himself by being submissive or trying to be invisible. Those clubs are probably a refuge for him, one his parents allow because it also helps him walk that unerring path to the pile of university acceptance letters. There’s one line in TBC that I think gets overlooked sometimes. It’s when Andrew says he taped Larry Lester’s “buns” together. Brian says, “that was you?” and Andrew nods, and there’s an entire script’s worth of material in the look that passes between them. Brian knows Larry. They’re probably in those clubs together. If Brian had shared a gym period with Andrew instead of Larry, it could easily have been Brian whose skin came off with the tape. And they both know it. How do you learn to belong in a group that includes people who could and would bully you like that, apparently on a whim? Brian spends the film trying to answer that question and it’s incredibly important that Andrew shows real remorse to Brian - to everyone, but to Brian specifically.

@happylindsay4475

3 жыл бұрын

@@BrookeSimmons That was a beautifully observed analysis-🤯 Thank you

@foxglovewargrave681

3 жыл бұрын

I can’t afford to do patroeon right now considering that I have loans to pay off but would you consider doing this but with the psychology of The Boys In The Band? It essentially follows the same sort of theme as The Breakfast Club in that it takes place in only one setting but the conversation is about being gay in the 60’s and all characters are as dynamic. You really get to see that as the plot unfolds.

I would love to point out that Brian's head is rarely at level or above the other characters despite being the tallest actor.

@timbreakradio

3 жыл бұрын

That's great cinematography there! Stellar observation!

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

Great point, thankyou!

@themadmallard

3 жыл бұрын

and at the end, not only is he in front, but walking upright.

@ajc94

3 жыл бұрын

Whoa I never knew this! Always imagined him as much shorter than bender.

@monkeydude9192

3 жыл бұрын

Apparently Hall actually had a growth spurt during filming and started off being shorter than Nelson.

I think Brian actually does the bravest thing of any of them: he challenges the temporary safe space that they’ve created that morning. It’s Brian who asks, ‘Are we friends now?’, and it’s Brian who asks, ‘Will we still be friends on Monday?’ That’s a really uncomfortable question that the rest of them are probably thinking about on some level, but are choosing to ignore for fear of spoiling the moment. They’re getting a rare chance to feel authentic, but Brian says, in effect, ‘If we act like we can be a safe place for each other now, and then don’t make some big changes to how we treat each other in future, then we’re NOT being authentic now. There may be a cost to changing for each other, but if we don’t, this moment that feels so meaningful doesn’t actually mean anything.’ That’s a scary thing to say. Claire’s right that Brian probably has less to lose by staying friends - although it’s hard to imagine Brian’s parents would be delighted to hear, ‘See you, guys, I’m off to hang out with Bender and Alison!’ - but he’s also got the most to lose in that moment, precisely because a rejection would hit him the hardest. So I’d say that’s an important moment, because Brian actually confronts his fear of rejection and takes a risk - and if he hadn’t, he might well have ended up rejected again. It’s also, I think, the first time Brian gets to spontaneously talk about himself and another group member as ‘we’: he says he wouldn’t reject the others, and only Alison joins him in that, so he challenges the other three and says something like, ‘Doesn’t that make us better people than you?’ When your self-esteem is as low as Brian’s, putting yourself and a other person in an ‘us’, assuming their permission without having to check, is quite a big deal. He actually identifies someone as his ally and speaks confidently on that, rather than making tentative bids for alliance that fail. Brian’s the most inturned person, but because of that he gets the group to reflect on themselves as a group, which means braving out his fear of rejection. I’d call that his biggest moment.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I think that moment really is significant for him. It's hard to notice but it's one of the few times where he actually acts and initiates something (taking a risk) instead of just reacting and trying to diffuse conflict

@efoxkitsune9493

3 жыл бұрын

Amazing observation.

@dickmarx1298

3 жыл бұрын

That wall of text is amazing. Thank you

@notdolgutz9728

3 жыл бұрын

Underated comment, beautifully written

@chrisdiver6224

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Kit, I agree with the well expressed points you have made. If you take a look at what I say above, you may agree that I've taken those ideas a further step.

About the gun in Brian's locker, I don't think the school or his parents knew it was a suicide attempt. It would fit Brian's character that, when confronted with questions, he lied and said it was for a science experiment or something. It would explain his mother's frustration with him in the beginning and why he was just placed in detention. They all think it was just a case of young stupidity and Brian is too submissive to correct them.

@jmheilmann

3 жыл бұрын

The issue with the gun was always one of the sticking points for me in this movie despite it being one of my favorites. Like a kid with a gun in school? How isn't that automatic expulsion? I think this explanation is excellent and helps me got over this point.

@1993greeksoldier

3 жыл бұрын

@@jmheilmann it is also worth considering what the American school system was like in the 80's I didn't live through that time but the sense I get is that gun violence with schools wasn't in the public consciousness as much before Columbine happened.

@hippolyte90

3 жыл бұрын

@@1993greeksoldier Add to the fact that it was a starters pistol and, while it did ruin school property (Brian's locker), it was probably considered equal to firecrackers and not as dangerous as an real firearm.

@FireMinstrel

3 жыл бұрын

If his parents did find out it was a suicide attempt, I could see the mother getting all dramatic and crying, so that SHE can be the victim.

@HelpMeOuch

3 жыл бұрын

@@jmheilmann Keep in mind that the Breakfast Club was filmed in 1985. Prior to the Columbine High School massacre in 1999, expulsion and time in jail were not the first choice of punishment for a student before that time. Two of the boys in my middle school class were caught with a gun and they were only suspended for two weeks, but that was in 1992. Times are different to the social mores of the 1980s.

It's also telling how Brian is the one that initiates the conversation about whether they'll still be friends on Monday. I think it's probably the most important to him (being used to the guy that's left out) and Claire going off about how they're probably gonna ignore each other is what riles him up enough to get him to get upset and open up to the group.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

He's also really adamant that he still wants to be friends with them and he sure as hell wouldn't ignore them, "'Cause [he] think[s] that's real shitty..." And Brian knows more than anyone else in the group imo how it feels to be invisible to someone else, how truly hurtful it can be

@helenl3193

3 жыл бұрын

@@Aloisk2012 Alison knows that pain from her home life, but doesn't worry so much about it at school - not because it doesn't happen to her, but because she's made that her armour, she chose it. He's the only one who hasn't opted out of the school society/hierarchy but also has to fear being ignored/not friends with the others. In fact, I imagine Alison would struggle in the normal school scenario - is she suddenly going to be going to Andrew's matches and hanging out with the other wrestlers' girlfriends? They are unlikely to accept her unless she manages to completely shift her image and actions at school, and even then it will be a long and arduous process to win them over. Not to say that relationship couldn't work, because Andrew isn't massively invested in the jock stuff and would probably be fine with her not wanting to be a cheerleader/whatever, but it still seems like Claire is the most honest about the realities of school politics - she knows her cred would be hurt by her being friends with anyone but Andrew. It's disappointing that she wouldn't even try, but it's accurate to acknowledge that it could create problems for her/most of them if they're seen to associate with people outside of their designated group.

@moonlily1

3 жыл бұрын

Well, he can be friends with Allison, because as she's said, she doesn't have any other friends to judge who she hangs out with.

Brian is the filmmaker. He is the narrator, the unseen quiet observant, sensitive ones at the fringes of society who watch and take note. the ones who explain us to ourselves. I would posit he is the archetype that Hughs most strongly identifies with, as his voice,as you noted, begins and ends the film. He is Hughs and the others are the ones he observed in high school. The ones he admired. They are all flawed archetypes but they are also found everywhere, they are how we become real people at some point and it's a sweet, if simplistic, tribute to that time in life when we are experimenting with who we are and what we will become.

@AnnafromHungarylvNW

3 жыл бұрын

Well said!

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

Well said indeed

@RogerBarraud

3 жыл бұрын

You nailed it!

@hgoodin1013

3 жыл бұрын

Very much this. Well said.

@danmc5542

2 жыл бұрын

I kind of see that role played by both Brian and Allison. She can at times cut through everything and say what is, as in when she says Andy cannot think for himself, or when she says your heart dies when you grow up.

It's also really sad how he's tied so much of his self-esteem and identity to his grade, to the point that he says, "Even if I aced the rest of the semester, I'm still only a B." Notice how he doesn't say "I'd only get a B" or "I'd only earn a B"; he says "I'm still only a B". And with his grades seeming like the only thing he can take pride in being better at most most people, he can't stand being average to the point that it feels like absolute failure

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

not to mention his family's pressure to do well in school too - his mom even tells him to study *during detention*, even though Brian says they're not supposed to do any work

@BY-bj6ic

3 жыл бұрын

Many men do this with their jobs/careers as well. That's why job loss is so devastating.

@LadyIarConnacht

3 жыл бұрын

I relate strongly to this. When you have just this one strength, you can't stand to have it lessened.

@roonarific1086

3 жыл бұрын

@@LadyIarConnacht And when Bender (albeit defensively) challenges that intelligence in the mini-argument over the lamp, we see a rare assertive moment from Brian.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

@@BY-bj6ic yeah for sure, men staking their entire identity on their income or ability to provide for their families/communities is definitely more widespread than we often talk about

Brian was the most relatable guy to me. He is clearly bullied a lot which was the same for me at that age. Just hearing the extremes he was taken to due to his invisibility was so much like looking at myself. I was definitely one of those school kids that almost added to the statistics on suicide. It's the reason I became a teacher too. To ensure no other child felt like another Brian.

@kitcatsiguenza6308

3 жыл бұрын

Dude 🥺 I hope you’re in a better place now and I’m so glad you weren’t added to that statistic! You sound like a great teacher w a lot of compassion and I thank you for big heart. Kids like me these days could really use ppl like you

@StarFire-fk9jr

3 жыл бұрын

This comment literally warmed my heart 🥺🥺🥺❤

@matthewbrown4933

3 жыл бұрын

It’s beautiful you became a teacher for that reason, god bless you and thank you for staying alive :)

@abisspassenger

3 жыл бұрын

Although Allison is my most relatable character, I'm also studying to become a teacher.

@nodders1

3 жыл бұрын

Good of you. I've read somewhere that often social workers and teachers and the like focus mostly on the rebellious kids, those that clearly show issues in some exterior way, but miss out on the quiet, studying, submissive types who stay low and slowly die inside while having top grades. Glad you stayed.

I think it's alright that Brian doesn't end up in a relationship, because it was a lot more important to him to make friends. And you definitely need to learn how to be a good friend first before you can be a good boyfriend/romantic partner

@BY-bj6ic

3 жыл бұрын

good point. Also adding another character so everyone can pair up in the end is bad story telling

@wmwilliamsiii

3 жыл бұрын

I agree, also I never considered the budding romances between the others as something that would likely last beyond a few months.

@julietardos5044

3 жыл бұрын

I think it's because the filmmakers didn't think a geek would get the girl. It really bugs me that they always have to have the characters pair up like that. They could have all been friends and not boyfriend/girlfriend.

@dickmarx1298

3 жыл бұрын

There's also that notion of "If you're not whole without someone, you will never be whole with them" So focusing on himself first is best

@basil-li1jw

3 жыл бұрын

I mean, Allison is even more awkward than him and she gets in a relationship

The part where you talked about how we compare our problems to everyone else's to see if we have the right to suffer hit me like a rock. You conveyed my exact feelings.

@jessicayoung3656

3 жыл бұрын

Its crazy how people will invalidate people's suffering because others may have it worse. I see that all the time online.

@learn2draw716

3 жыл бұрын

@@jessicayoung3656 Try family and "friends".

@nodders1

3 жыл бұрын

Sometimes you are socialised into it. I've been brought up from an early age to be grateful for how fortunate I was in comparison to others. "Count your blessings and don't upset your poor mother who's got a lot on her plate" glossed over an awful lot of horrible stuff in my life.

@saphirelittle352

3 жыл бұрын

@@jessicayoung3656 yeah for a very long time i suppressed my feelings towards my parents and im more than sure it sprouts from the saying they always ingrained into my brain “well theres kid starving in Africa, therefore you should eat all of your food” and theres other things similar to that but after about 5-8 years of abuse in literally every way possible i found that Africa hasn’t been poor in DECADES and that was a real “fuck you heres a reality bomb” moment that shook me awake sadly im still in the situation hoping to get out of this place and see a therapist in the process because telling your kid to eat everything on their plate causes some pretty bad eating habits

@alaya3322

3 жыл бұрын

@@saphirelittle352 omg yes to this day I have a very hard time stopping myself from eating even though I know I'm full. I'm afraid people will judge me if I throw away a few bites of food.

13:30 the idea of having loving parents, but them being being capable of abuse and feeling guilty for being unhappy really hit me. My parents love me, hug me, say I love you on the daily, but my therapist has had to make me understand my mom has abusive tendencies due to some forms of emotional and physical abuse. I’ve had teachers become concerned and worried. My mom has literally told me I have nothing to be unhappy about as I have an ideal household, so that has made me feel guilty for feeling like I have trauma.

@1993greeksoldier

3 жыл бұрын

Right there with you my Mom definitely liked to micro manage me and would get upset but never realize she was upset. She also was not very good at apologizing I don't think I remember a time where she sincerely did so. But in comparisons to friends dealing with poverty, single parent households, or physically abusive circumstances I never felt I was allowed to be upset because that would be ungrateful. Just another white guy talking about how bad his life is when he has no idea what other groups are going through. Now I'm still of the opinion I had a pretty easy life but I have gotten to a place where I can recognize I wasn't always treated fairly. That being upset over unfairness is ok but still recognize what others are going through and want to support them with the injustices they face. Honestly balancing those two things has really equipped me to have a voice and communicate in a much healthier way.

@FireMinstrel

3 жыл бұрын

My mother was emotionally abusive as well. I’ll never say “but she loved me” though. It feels like I’d be making excuses for her that way, no matter how much she says she loves me. Any moron can say it.

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

It's a terrible shame how easy it can be to make us humans guilty about what we feel. But we do feel what we feel and those feelings are never meant to be suppressed. Thankyou for opening up like that. This is a really heartfelt thread of comments

@lexi7749

3 жыл бұрын

@@1993greeksoldier yes, exactly! It was an overall safe and happy household, definitely “ideal” compared to others, but it doesn’t take away from what also went on. My mom also doesn’t apologize because I don’t think she knows she’s ever been wrong. Those things shape you no matter what and it can leave a scar

@lexi7749

3 жыл бұрын

@@FireMinstrel yea it’s hard because there can be love and abuse at the same time, it makes it emotionally confusing

Out of all the characters in this movie, Brian was the one I related to the most. Like Brian, I experienced a lot of pressure to be the "good kid." I always had to make perfect grades and I was not allowed to express any negativity of any kind. If I did, I was always manipulated to feel guilty about it. As a result, I, like Brian, became very passive and submissive, which is something I still struggle with to this day. I feel like I'm always apologizing for something, and I have a very hard time saying "no." When I first saw this movie, and it came to Brian's confession about him contemplating suicide because of one bad grade, I cried with him, because I knew all too well about not having the freedom to fail. Because if I made a bad grade, my parents automatically assumed it was because I "wasn't trying." It never occurred to them that I might actually be struggling with a particular subject because I was just "so smart." That's why, for me, Brian was never "forgettable," so thank you for taking the time to delve into his character. Hopefully, it will help bring more awareness to the inner turmoil of the "good kid."

@benjaminthomas5617

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly the same for me too...being the student who always had good marks I was put up in a high place and without even realizing the trap I myself started pressurizing me. And then I wanted to belong significantly in a group and be memorable to people which led to me being submissive to everyone around me never saying no to someone doing other people's works by assuring myself I was just helping them when in reality they were using me. I have slowly started to assert myself as a person who is not something to be used around, just recently and this video made me realize a lot of the mistakes I had made

@yallerfy1787

2 жыл бұрын

Same. I'm in 11th grade, and I have been inching closer and closer to suicide since the start of high school. His character I related to the strongest. His monologue hit me so hard I had to stop and sob.

Bender says that their dads are alike and should go bowling together. A not subtle hint that Bender sees how toxic Brian's home life is. (I think my earlier comment on this didn't go through)

@dawnsrayz

3 жыл бұрын

Bender is talking about Andrews father. Bender at first thinks Brian's dad is "Mr. Rodgers." Brian calls his parents "warped" during an early scene in the movie but nobody listens to him. 🤷

@nyxskids

3 жыл бұрын

@@dawnsrayz Yeah. My brain put that into the scene where Brian said "I can't have a B. And I know my parents can't have it." My rusty recall had him say I know my dad can't have it... And since that's close to when Andy was complaining about his dad... I mixed it up. Wishful thinking. I always wanted someone to see Brian, so I guess my mind made it happen. I also haven't watched in like a decade

@paramitch

3 жыл бұрын

Even though Bender doesn't respond to Brian (but to Andrew), when Brian talks about his parents, I do think we see awareness and empathy from both Bender and Andrew's faces in that confessional scene -- that they become aware that Brian is trapped in a certain kind of bullying abuse just like they are.

@nyxskids

3 жыл бұрын

@@paramitch that might be part of why I remembered it wrong. The empathy Brian got in that scene was fairly universal among the brats.

@LadyIarConnacht

3 жыл бұрын

@@nyxskids I felt it was a realistic aspect of the movie that Brian did not receive acceptance or understanding from the other kids.

Emotionally speaking, the Allison video stung a bit, a few things hit a little too close to home. Brian's vid has me crying on a Saturday morning while eating a bagel. I like that.

@marcelo2849

3 жыл бұрын

Same

@justsomenobody1454

3 жыл бұрын

Brian is actually the one that hits close to home for me

@rycolligan

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah an Allison would like that... ;)

@d00diehead52

3 жыл бұрын

same here, when the part about how brian sort of makes himself the bad guy for hating his parents oops those tears just manifested out of nowhere

@emmaspeck5963

3 жыл бұрын

the fact that i'm doing the exact same thing but on a sunday night

I remember when I was enlisted, a friend of mine asked if I had ever seen The Breakfast Club. I said no. He told me to watch it, because he said I was very much like 'the Brain'. I watched it, and realized that I very much resembled Brian. I think Brian's family views Brian much the same way Andrew's dad views him, as an extension of themselves, to use for bragging reasons with the neighbors/at work/at church. Hence why Brian has all this pressure on him, because there's always this pressure on him on being the smart guy/overachiever.

@moonsnakesheddingskin

3 жыл бұрын

I had a lot of friends like that growing up. Even though my home life also sucked, but in a more Bender-like way, I saw how much they suffered from the expectations of their parents. My partner had a very similar experience growing up with a parent who put an enormous amount of pressure on them to do everything that they'd done and more, to be vastly successful! The amount of anxiety & stress & depression that that led to is something that they're still dealing with today. I hope you're doing good now, you deserve to be happy in your own head 💚

@BY-bj6ic

3 жыл бұрын

In the Joy Luck Club the character Waverly feels the her mother is doing the same thing to her.

@helenl3193

3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely - I think he's also unquestioningly channelled their perceptions and that's where he gets his sneering from - don't be a dumb loser, don't be a rebel/weirdo/outcast. What would the neighbours think?! He has to be a good big brother, which includes being a good son and a role model. He has to be smart and do well at school, and presumably get into a good college and a successful, respectable career. It's very similar to Andrew's dad, just the ideal is academic instead of sports

@crystalquasar6841

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting. When I was in The Breakfast Club was the most quoted movie in my A school.

@FaxModem1

3 жыл бұрын

@Manek Iridius ​ @Manek Iridius Patriotism, financial independence, physical distance from said people, money for both college and for medical procedures(I got my wisdom teeth taken out my first year in), etc. If you're poor in America, the military opens a lot of doors that aren't available to you that you wouldn't have otherwise if you have money.

Brian is the author of the story. It’s very subtle but it’s essentially told from his viewpoint and his triumph is not only the essay and becoming part of a group that talks about more than properties of physics but also in becoming a writer director. I think he represents John Hughes in the movie.

Brian berating Allison’s day dreams of running away aren’t just him belittling her - it’s Brian belittling himself. He probably has had similar day dreams of running away and starting a new life - one where he determines what he does. But Brian’s intelligence is in a way also his weakness. He’s an absolute realist and can’t help being one. So he probably quickly dismisses such thoughts as pure fantasy with no probability of succeeding. Similarly, when Brian stands down every time Bender challenges him, it’s because he knows that all odds say he will lose in a direct confrontation. The logical thing for him to do is to avoid and appease any conflict. But that stops him from growing and coming into his own. Avoiding all conflict makes him a pinball of everyone else’s whims. And he’ll have to go through some (lost) fights to gain people’s respect and develop the skills to actually win fights/conflicts/confrontations.

anyone who's mom would pack a can of HEINZ BEANZ in his lunch instead of a refreshing can of COKE must have problems at home as well as deep insecurities amongst his peers.

@SisterMistyBlue

3 жыл бұрын

Actually that is just the thermos - it is soup, so he says early on. I think Heinz paid for product placement

@2degucitas

3 жыл бұрын

@@SisterMistyBlue So did Coke. They are all drinking it.

@daisywrabbit

3 жыл бұрын

@@SisterMistyBlue COKE paid for product placement in my original comment. lol

Brian’s mom’s license plate is EMC 2. Though that was an interesting detail.

@nopenope6159

3 жыл бұрын

why is that? does it mean something?

@amandawittenstein1873

3 жыл бұрын

@@nopenope6159 It’s the short hand form for Einstein’s theory of relativity, e=mc^2, or Energy = Mass x Speed of Light(squared). It’s a physics theory, and a sight gag joke to show Brian’s family is smart.

@nopenope6159

3 жыл бұрын

@@amandawittenstein1873 oohhh thank you! ☺

@jkeegan154

3 жыл бұрын

I think it explains why Brian's family keeps shoving his grades down his throat.

@lpr5269

2 күн бұрын

Fun Fact: Brian's Mom was played by Anthony Michael Hall's real mom. Mercedes Hall.

The fact that he doesn't get a romantic partner is another thing that makes him superior to others. Becoming everyone's voice through the essay means becoming a leader. Off topic: I have always wondered what actually happened on Monday after detention

@ioncekilledamanwithmyshoe

3 жыл бұрын

I wonder what happened on Monday too, but I’m glad they didn’t make a sequel or something about it.

@shpankyfunky

3 жыл бұрын

@@ioncekilledamanwithmyshoe yeah, a sequel would've have ruined it honestly

@Ambir91

3 жыл бұрын

I like to imagine that they started seeing each other diferently, like pals that had bonded... Maybe hanging out here and there , but most importantly they started sharing their free time having fun. There's no other time in my life that i was happier, than in my youth.

@jht3fougifh393

3 жыл бұрын

@@Ambir91 In a perfect world. But if it were real, no way. Wouldn't ever happen. That's just human nature.

@darianstarfrog

3 жыл бұрын

@@jht3fougifh393 it can and does happen.. just because it hasn't in your world ...doesn't mean it's the same for everyone.. silly!

Just noticed Bryans sweater is being worn inside out

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

that is an interesting detail, wonder if it was deliberate / if it means anything for his character

@rmhd7550

3 жыл бұрын

Oh yeah

@milacruz3970

3 жыл бұрын

@@Aloisk2012 Oh for sure. The costumes are another language. I'd say that he didn't pay attention when he was getting dressed in the morning and not even his mother notices, no one in the whole movie tells him, not even him which reflects the way he feels in his family and in life, unoticed. I may be reading too much into it but trust me, the costume department does not do anything at random.

@julietardos5044

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I've been trying to see if it is inside out at the beginning or only closer to the end. Did he take it off when they got high and then put it back on inside out or was it always like that?

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

Not sure, but I think it was inside out the whole time

I remember I cried when he said he thought of suicide, I think most people who haven't had suicidal thoughts don't really understand how horrible one must feel to get to that point, I trully wanted someone to talk to him, to support him or something and when the movie just carried on I felt horrible, it feels so shitty when you trust someone with those kind f stuff and they just say oh well

I wanted to point out a super random costume detail of brian, which is his socks are mismatched. But only slightly, like it's a slight bit of rebellion but he still wanted to not get in trouble so they are the same design.

@crypt5129

Жыл бұрын

I thought I was going crazy

@jzen1455

Жыл бұрын

allison's socks are mismatched too.

The flare gun found in Brian’s locker was never actually meant to kill him. There’s no way you can use a flare gun for that. The gun was there to give Brian a sense of control. A sense that he could make that choice if he wanted to. That’s why he kept it in his locker. To have it there, know that it was there. Giving some form of tangibility to a pipe dream of exerting control over his destiny.

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

I'd agree. Unconsciously anyway. Consciously I think he would've intended or considered suicide. But the fact he did choose a flare gun and not a real one does say alot, yeah

@TemariNaraannaschatz

3 жыл бұрын

@@mylittlethoughttree He did try to kill himself: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pZimtq2JqbqWYZs.html To cut it short: Brian: I tried. You pull the fucking trunk on and the light's supposed to go on. It didn't go on, I mean. He wasn't talking about the lamp. The gun didn't go off when he pulled the trigger and it only later went off in his locker, which is why they found the gun and we see the burned out locker in the beginning. And you can kill yourself with a flare gun (see other answer).

@milton7763

3 жыл бұрын

@Manek Iridius Do you actually think that’s the way a fragile little boy is going to kill himself?

@milton7763

3 жыл бұрын

@@TemariNaraannaschatz What are you basing this on? He’s obviously talking about the lamp. What possibly gives you the idea that he’s talking about the gun? You don’t pull the trigger of a flare gun and nothing happens for an hour or so to then suddenly go off.

@milton7763

3 жыл бұрын

@@TemariNaraannaschatz What are you basing this on? He’s obviously talking about the lamp. What possibly gives you the idea that he’s talking about the gun? You don’t pull the trigger of a flare gun and nothing happens for an hour or so to then suddenly go off.

"the most forgettable of the main kids" .... that moment when he's your favourite character lmao

I tend to think that when they say "We trust you", that's a lot of what Brian was missing in his home life. It's not that Claire flattered him into doing the essay, it's that they recognize his ability to do something that they can't, and his ability to do it period. Whereas his parents probably micromanage his life as if he can't be trusted to, hence his submissiveness, the group trusts him to assert himself on their behalf. I think if Claire hadn't said that, he still probably would have, but he wouldn't have been proud or empowered by it at the end.

One thing I never noticed until watching it lately was that in the very start of the film Carl the janitor is the only person who has any kind of response to him with a sort of kindness, having likely had to clean up the incident with the flare gun, and having likely put the pieces together. Everyone else likely thinks he was doing something stupid and disrupted the school, Carl sees what was happening and wants to do something about it. Everyone else is sort of "hostile to the nerd" in a sort of way until they see what he's going they emotional and hear his story. Because when they're all sitting around and learning about each other, what they're learning is that there is no scale to weigh their home life problems vs others home life problems, everyone in this film is going through something and it's deeply impacting them to the point that they got themselves into this detention. What Brian learns is that by expressing himself and the things he goes through, people are now receptive of it and will respond to him softer as it's needed for him right now.

I view Andrew and Brian as being opposite sides of the same coin. They're both manipulated by their parents in similar ways. The beauty of this movie is watching these people realize they have more in common than they think.

I would agree that Brian is passive but I take issue of the many times you've called him forgettable. I was a teenager in the 80's so I can assure you that every time the character had lines to speak I was paying attention because a part of me related to him. I related to both him and Allison as well. I related to how his passiveness made him an easy target to get bullied and how within that passiveness and silence held a lot of unexpressed saddness. I hold a lot of compassion for Brian and I can't help but think the reason you call him forgettable is he's still being perceived through the hierarchy of charisma and clique popularity these teenagers were judged within the school system. So of course within that clique popularity Brian disapears. You underestimate the moment where Brian says "fuck you!" to Claire. That is a liberating moment because in the beginning Brian would feel nothing but insecure and beneath Claire because she is so popular. So when he finally tells Claire off for being so conceited it's his way of punching through his insecurities that compared himself to others. But I do agree with your analysis of how he turns his anger inward. The moment he yells at Claire he brings himself back to his own pain where he then admits how desperate and in pain he truly was. Both Brian and Allison relate to feeling invisible. They express it in different ways. Let's never underestimate when Brian says "fuck you." to Claire. We can hope he will punch through his passivity more and get out some more healthy "fuck yous." in the future.

@LadyIarConnacht

3 жыл бұрын

Did you notice how he suddenly is noticed when they want him to write their essay?

@Assisi4

3 жыл бұрын

@@LadyIarConnacht Yes. I agree he gives in for a certain need for approval. For someone so young it will take a while for him to fully assert and embody his own strength. That doesn’t mean the seeds of strength hasn’t been planted. He still uses his intelligence to stand up to Vernon in the end. We must remember that it's the "Brain" that has the last say. ;-)

@salazars.4123

3 жыл бұрын

I'm mostly shocked that I wrote a similar comment about this and then finding yours and realize we both have eye profile pictures. Weird.

@ChaseMcCain81

3 жыл бұрын

@@salazars.4123, cool

@julietardos5044

3 жыл бұрын

@@LadyIarConnacht Like Rudolph: Then all the reindeer loved him.

I'm not sure if this is significant or not, but the only time Brian ever takes off his green sweater is at the very end as they're walking out, holding it in his arm while interestingly wearing his brown coat. Perhaps a symbolic final shedding of layers. I just think it's interesting how he took off his sweater to put on his coat and that this is the only time in the movie that happens.

i think it’s also interesting to note the similarity between ‘brian’ and ‘brain’. none of the other characters’ names are close to their nickname except brian. i’ve always thought this was a little nod to just how much brian bases his self-worth and identity upon his grades at the start of the film

Thanks for your insights. I always identified the most with Brian. One thing you didn’t mention is the keeping of the layers. Brian doesn’t shed his clothes the way that Allison, Bender, and Sporto do, at least not as much: the green sweater never comes off. Even when he tries, he gets embarrassed when he sees Bender doing the same thing.

@bloodyrose1985

3 жыл бұрын

He does take off his sweater at the end of the movie when he is leaving detention with the Club

@nicole-ls4jb

3 жыл бұрын

He also turns his green sweatshirt inside-out at some point, which I had never noticed before this video.

@sharko3211

3 жыл бұрын

Did you say sporto because you forgot Andrew’s name?

The other reason Bender put the weed in Brian's pants is because he knew that was the safest place. Also, I'm glad Brian was out in front of the group as they were walking out. I'm looking forward to Carl.

@wiseguy01

3 жыл бұрын

Claire?

These videos kinda made me realise that I’m a weird mix of John and Brian with some of Allison

@Ironborn4

3 жыл бұрын

Everyone's a mix of all these characters. These characters are personifications of aspects of our personalities and circumstances of our lives. It's the point at the end of the movie when Brian writes that in each of them is a jock, a basket case, a criminal, a princess and a brain.

@trinaq

3 жыл бұрын

I concur. The characters make this movie iconic, as nearly everyone can relate to a member of the club, or even multiple characters at once. There's parts of these characters in us all but it's important not to stereotype or pigeonhole anyone, and that labels are for clothes, not people. 💕

@xxevilellisonxx

3 жыл бұрын

I think personally i'm a mix of the Janitor and Principal Vernon. my life is gonna be dogshit (all sarcasm (hopefully)

@_no6750

3 жыл бұрын

@@xxevilellisonxx there’s probably aspects of Vernon that everyone can relate to such as caring about what people think of you etc. and Carl is actually a really nice guy imo

@tonyp5706

2 жыл бұрын

Kinda the point of the movie

I related strongly to Brian, and I don't think his character is either forgettable or ordinary. When I went to school, nerds were rare, and very unpopular. There is a mental maturity about them that sets them apart from the other groups and most of them are lonely even with other nerds. The relationship that Brian is building is with himself, with his own work, and for people like Brian that is probably the healthiest way forward.

Brian hit my personality in every way. Submissive with no opinion, parents who seem perfect but clearly are not on the inside. They don’t see the value in my social health, but I don’t blame them totally on them. When they were little they had no childhood, they grew up in tough environments where they had to grow up. So I’ve put it upon myself to not be so scared anymore and voice my thoughts.

One of the reasons I hate the word "spoiled". Edit: The fact that ten people agree with me makes me happy.

@Arianbazyani

3 жыл бұрын

20*

@maxeyre2024

3 жыл бұрын

Lol I know right

@meidanrrustemi8322

3 жыл бұрын

60*

@Arbiter-8001

3 жыл бұрын

*80

@meep9231

3 жыл бұрын

*90

I felt you brushed over the flare gun scene and you kinda dismissed its importance to his character and his role in the movie. To me Brian is a very serious and adult character and in his character arc we see how he is able to let go of responsibility and be a kid. This scene was one of the stand out moments in the movie for me. I think the gun represents all of Brian's pent up fears and his internal pressure to succeed and it symbolizes the disconnect between Brian’s internal view of the world vs the actual world. I don’t think the group dismississes the seriousness of the situation, but rather breaks down his fears and shows the ridiculousness of his fears and how little they matter to everyone else. Brian feels like he has failed to such an extend that his whole life and future is already is ruined and thus he was considering suicide. You hear the seriousness in his voice and his self disdain as he explains why he is in detention. As viewers we understand the gravity of the situation and we might feel the neglect of the adults punishing a kid in such a sad and vulnerable position. But the group reacts the exact opposite. They sort of brush it off and laugh at the fact that the gun is not lethal at all. I think this enables Brian to see little his problems actually matter and that when he carries his problems alone, they start building up in his head and become bigger and bigger and more and more lethal. But when he is able to share his fears with the group all of the lethality of the gun and his grades are taken away. I don’t think Brian laughing at himself is a dismissive gesture to fit in, but rather a laugh of relief as he is able to step outside of himself and see himself and his problems through the eyes of the group. This ties back to the beginning of the monologue where he says that when he steps outside of himself and looks at himself (through his own eyes) he doesn’t like what he sees, because he failed school. But now what was a matter of life and death to him is laughed at like it was nothing his internal bubble of pressure is punctured and he realizes that it was never about life or death. This is where Brian can let go of all his responsibilities and what ultimately enables him to write the letter and stand up to authority and be his own person.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely - it totally contradicted his fears that people wouldn't like him for that part of him he was supressing that he felt ashamed of, but instead of ridicule as he might have expected he got acceptance and support, and you can almost see the pressure leave him as he walks out calmly alongside everyone at the end of the movie

I was certainly a Brian growing up, and despite my name on youtube being "Tim," my real name is Brian aswell. I was just someone who wanted everyone to get along, and am still like that, yet without the submissive undertones that let others walk all over me. I recall a scenario in middle school where a "Bender" was the reason I couldn't speak at all throughout any class he and I were in together, but that didn't really matter because I didn't speak through most classes in middle school, and somewhat high school. In this particular scenario, he sat behind me in class and talked to everyone around us except me. I tried to join in, and was met only with his ridicule of declaring "WHO IS TALKING TO YOU!?" This happened twice, and each time, no one said anything. No one aided me. No one opposed him. To a child, silence like that means they're against you too, and that's how I took it. It was probably that moment that solidified what I thought of myself on a social level amongst my peers. Course there's other factors, like what was my toxic and subliminally hateful home life that was handled through suppression and escapism. I basically felt through every aspect of my life that I wasn't allowed to express my emotions or thoughts. So I didn't. I wasn't allowed to defend myself. So I didn't. It was essentially that, the walking all over me and making me feel like the abused outsider without a voice that has showed me the path to becoming (mostly) everything I looked up to in a "Bender." My change came only a year ago, as I graduated high school back in June of 2020. Highs and lows still occurr. I'm still resentful and hateful to an extent, yet it's all just thought patterns I've yet to unlearn from childhood. Thank you for reading, I'm Brian and I hope you learned something.

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

That's a really touching story. I can so imagine that sort of thing happening to me in school. It's so sad how these small things can affect kids so powerfully. It's heartening to hear you're on the right road, though. Who we are growing up need not define us forever

@LadyIarConnacht

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your comment. This video didn't make me cry but your comment did. I was also a silent kid, but for some reason the other kids thought I was arrogant. I was bullied by the jocks and the "bad" kids were the only ones that showed sympathy to me. I was embarrassed at a high school reunion because at least seven different ex-jocks cornered me and apologized to me. Life is different as an adult, and I hope you find your place in it.

@timbreakradio

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you both for your kind and emotion filled responses. Throughout the video I kept thinking about that scenario in middle school and knew it was time to let it out. I usually write out entire comments, then erase them once they're complete. Maybe I don't think it's really that important/provocative once it's complete, or maybe I just needed to express the specific thought/idea somewhere other than my own brain. Either way, I'm happy this wasn't one of those times 😅. Further into adult life, I'm sure a deep rooted maturity and empathy grows inside of most youth, and I've been no doubt someone blessed to experience it early in my life. I hope both of your lives are going well right now, and continue to do so. I also hope you can give 2020 a good word at the end of your personal decade, as I quite enjoyed that video and thought about maybe doing one myself 😁

@SerVahnt

3 жыл бұрын

I would be nice if I could relate to them. But they are after all, scripted characters set in a fictional reality, considering truth. Completely un-relatable. When will they do a movie that shows the truth about what children and teenagers go through, it’s movies like these, that ensures the degradation and destruction of our youth. I found this movie to be grotesque considering the real true underlying issues about reality and who is ultimately responsible for how these people behave and why they are the way they are. Entertainment Enter Taint Man Tell a Vision Ray Diode.

@timbreakradio

3 жыл бұрын

@@SerVahnt Sounds like you need to write a book.

This was so relatable that I was actually made very uncomfortable throughout most of the video. I feel like I have a lot of thoughts about it that I still need to process before writing a whole essay here, but I wanted to praise this vid right away. I can’t remember the last time I was this absorbed in a video. I was literally hanging on every word, and was surprised to find myself brought to tears. Very thoughtful analysis. Well done, and thank you.

@leannaconda5859

3 жыл бұрын

Same

@marklee8503

3 жыл бұрын

Very nicely done. We all / each and every one of us, above the age of High School, can relate to one of them in this film.

Did anyone else notice that Brian’s green sweater is inside-out? Could that be symbolic about the way he tries to put himself out there but it really goes unnoticed by everyone?

This video made me realize I relate to Brian waaayyyy more than I initially thought

@lynnica5219

2 жыл бұрын

Me too

@ChromeDestiny

Жыл бұрын

I was basically a mix of Brian and Allison. Sometimes I had the ability to empathize with others like Andrew but I certainly wasn't athletic like he was.

Another insight. Towards the end when Brian brings up the observation that the 5 of them are friends it's not exactly coming from a need for approval because Andrew is the first to confirm that he is correct. So must we perceive him as simply needing approval or can we say when he asked that question it reflected his strength to be vulnerable? It was his question that sparked the conversation to go deeper about the concept of friendship and deeper emotions were then expressed. His vulneralbility gave the rest of the characters permission to be vulnerable as well. So in this scene we do see a strength in Brian that comes from his sweetness and honest sincerity. It's important to remember that not all strengths are loud and bring attention to themselves.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

I think it's cool how you read that more positively, that his vulnerability that the film showed up the that point can actually be used as a strength in getting people to open up and connect with each other. Never thought of it that way, but you're absolutely right

As someone who has been abused by a "nice" mother, I would add that the most important thing to say is that all that "niceness" is not for *free*. That's the thing. It's not loving out of love's sake, it's out of "I'm giving you x so that you'll owe me everything, even your entire life." And "I'm loving towards you in public so others will see it and think well of me." And that's not real love. And it certainly doesn't feel like it. My mother always instilled in me the feeling of "I have no obligation to do anything for you" even though now I understand as an adult that she absolutely had those obligations as a mother, she raised me to be only grateful. Which made me angry for being so, and then made me feel like a villain for not being able to be "genuinely" grateful and good. Love with strings is not love. Not even a little bit.

I always knew Brian was underappreciated cause of the whole suicide part that is desperately overlooked anytime anyone talks about this movie, but he might be my new favourite character..

Having asian parents made me empathize with Brian's character so much. I've always felt pressured to do good in school. In high school I got so depressed and unmotivated to do anything that my grades dropped, and I remember how much I just wanted to end it all. I'm glad I eventually realized that I don't have to be exceptional or be the best in school. I was supposed to be just a kid and try to learn stuff instead of being a mindless zombie trying to cram any bit of useless information just to get in the list of honor students and be something to brag about by my parents. So, thank you so much for this video. I appreciate how you discussed a more "forgettable" character to prove the point that Brian was never just some smart kid, but a fragile soul who deserves just as much love and attention as every other teen in the film. To whoever is reading this and relates to what I experienced in any way, please know that you aren't alone and that you matter. Don't be a good student for your parents or to impress anyone else, but do it for yourself. If studies aren't your thing, then join a club, find a new hobby, or do anything that makes you happy. In the end, it's your life and you should do whatever you want with it. And to any parent putting too much pressure on their kids, just stop. You think you're doing it for their own good but you're not. Sure, they should still do their best in school but try not to bring them down too much, alright? Appreciate their efforts, even if they aren't the smartest kid in the class.

I can relate to Brian I’m always ignored

@kitwhitfield7169

3 жыл бұрын

Hello! See you there. :-)

@queensquish

3 жыл бұрын

Aw that’s not good 😢 You keep being your wonderful self, people don’t know what they are missing ♥️♥️♥️

I like how Brian’s narrative throughout the film is finding value in who you are and accepting/pursuing friendships that lead you towards different parts of yourself.

Brian technically also stood up to Vernon (in favor of Bender no less) when he tacked on detention #8, "excuse me sir it's 7". He actually has confidence in his precise nature just not much in other areas.

Saw this movie when it came out in the 80s and discussed the characters endlessly with my friends. . . thank you for your insights and carrying on that tradition. Please keep making thoughtful and entertaining videos!

Watching this right now. I gotta say your character analysis videos are the best. I love your voice as well and the comfortable pace makes everything easy to grasp. I feel like you've probably found your niche in character analysis. So I think you should definitely explore that area more, particularly in 80s/90s classics. I'm very interested in what you think of the characters in Planes, Trains and Automobiles: a comedy film that disguises a lot of tragedy.

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

I've never seen that movie but I'll look it up 😊

@DarthCompton

3 жыл бұрын

@@mylittlethoughttree Oh you're in for a treat then!

@Arttective

3 жыл бұрын

@@mylittlethoughttree You are gonna have a field day with that one!

Maybe I was channeling my inner Brian, but I always thought that all the characters decided to write the essay as Brian told them to but one by one. Like the voiceovers were the way they were written too. I thought that was a nice way to stick it up to the man and that they all became "friends". I never thought that maybe just Brian wrote it and the rest was film magic. Great video as always! Well done, mate.

@katiestevenson7742

3 жыл бұрын

The essay was a sentences long, I think all helped decided what went on the paper (though we never see them) but Brain wrote it down, like a class group assignment: he would say to Andrew what does society and than you yourself saw as "A jock" Then he turns to John *Bender* and asks the same question "A Criminal" Then he turns to Clare "A Princess" Finially to Alison "A Basket Case" And then simply concludes they more than those labels than society gave them, processing himself to a stereotypes who just obeys the system and can't stand to disappoint his high pressured parents who make him feel like Crap if he doesn't a A which made him feel so crazy than he took a gun to School in his locker and was going to kill himself.

@Thatafrr

3 жыл бұрын

Brian wouldn't be so proud in the end if he didn't write it.

@BY-bj6ic

3 жыл бұрын

@@Thatafrr Very true

@katiestevenson7742

3 жыл бұрын

@@Thatafrr He should be proud of himself for writing it in such a concoius and clear way that defines the teachers orders and his character growth in the film.

Watching the breakfast club for the first time, I immediately related to Brian. I started crying in the scene where they were sharing. Definitely least forgettable for me. What does that say about me?

there’s also something to be said about putting that pressure on yourself. Sometimes it’s not necessarily something that you are pressured into from a parent but from yourself and your own expectations or perfectionism. The way that Brian feels left out could also happen from feelings of neglect within a family setting which might cause someone to put the value on grades and mental performance on themselves. I think this is something I’ve struggled with a bit and I’m sure others have

@larux6124

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, me too. Fuuck, I'm crying so much lol

@musicmaniac1825

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for writing this comment, it actually pointed out to me why this video struck me so much in the end. I was the smart kid in my classes, but hardly truly felt like I belonged in my friend groups until halfway through high school. So much that I was almost better at talking to teachers and the parents of my friends than my actual friends, I guess. And that fitting in part still returns every now and then. Plus the being perceived as academically smart did make me kind of, in harsh words, "a stuck up but docile prick" towards kids in high school who had less interest in studying but focused on social life, going so far as to think of them as lesser and stupid in my head. No need to react, you can of course but just kind of had to write it out for myself here 😅 thanks

Loved this analysis of one of my favorite characters from the movie! I especially appreciated your insight about Brian's essay. I always felt that one of Brian's triumphs was when they were all in a circle, and discussing Brian's question as to whether they would be friends on Monday. It was Brian who addressed the whole group and said, "I wouldn't do that to you. I wouldn't, and I will not." There is such an innate dignity and power to his statement.

I think the scene where he sneers at Allison leans more to his acceptance from Andrew. He now has one of the "cool" kids communicating and being his friend, he is trying to be part of his crowd by shitting on Allison. That is how the "cool" kids treat him, so now he is in that crowd and he is acting how he believes he should be acting as part of this new crowd he is in. This is reinforced when he later asks Clare about how things will go when they are back at school, he has a realization that these are not real friends and he will be right back in his place come monday morning.

In my sociology class in high school we watched this movie. At the end we went around the class and had to figure out which character we each personally identified with and I had a very hard time figuring out who because I didn't feel like I fit any of the characters so this frustrated me. Eventually, my teacher helped me out some and he explained that from what he'd seen in class I was, in fact, a Brian who wanted to be a Bender. I hadn't seen it before when I first watched the movie, and I still didn't quite get it even after my teacher explained it, but after watching this video, I really do see it. I've always been more passive, I have a hard time standing up for myself, I've felt very pressured to be perfect, a pressure my parents have unintentionally put on me. I've been bullied a lot and I've had a hard time fitting in in the past so I very much relate to him in that sense. I actually was suicidal at some point because of all of those things since they're qualities about myself I struggle with a lot and being bullied and pressured has also contributed to that. I relate so much to Brian when he says that he doesn't like what he sees when he looks at himself. I have a good home life like he does too, everyone thinks that I have no reason to feel the way I do because of that. I wouldn't say my parents are manipulative or that my family is "perfect" I think like I said earlier everything was more unintentional on their part. My self esteem was and to a degree still is fairly low. Until I was in high school and started to take on a persona somewhere between Brian and Bender, I was the forgettable student and I was very often actually literally forgotten by people in class and had few friends. The whole Bender persona I started to take on was my outlet of sorts so that I could feel less forgotten, be noticed, and feel like I identified with a group in some way. I felt like because people forgot me even though I was liked that I could be disliked but remembered and I was more satisfied with that. I wanted so badly for people to see me. I don't struggle as much with these things like I used to, but I do still identify with him a lot. I'm sort of glad that my teacher was able to see that because it really is spot on and I've been able to see a lot of things about myself and understand them better because of it. Also I do agree that a lot of Brians need more Bender in them, I think it would do a lot of us good.

@JBabyLeather

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting also, that there’s how we see ourselves and how others see us. I imagine most would say if me that they see Brian, but I see myself as more of an Allison.

You did an amazing job! The only thing I would have added that I wasn't able to find in the first section of the comments were two things: 1. His arm bump to himself. 2. His sweatshirt being inside out. The little arm bump Brian does after the essay. It's, in my opinion, a way of supporting himself. No one is there to pat him on the back or tell him this essay has to be such a way in order to make and impact, and he's not there to see the end result or to see if he succeeded though the reactions of others like the teacher. In that moment he is voicing his opinion and that is enough of a success, as you had said. but as a final assurance so that he doesn't double or triple think it and change it out of fear, he simply gives himself a friendly nudge and the moment moves on. It's a moment where he encourages himself to say what he wants instead of depending on others or destroying himself and that just warms me every time. The sweatshirt being inside out could be a lot of things and I have no professional knowledge on this so I could very well be wrong but it feels like it could be also a small sign of rebellion in saying he'll do as he's supposed to but in a way he wants to. Or it could also be the fact that the inside is facing everyone as if, in a way, its an invitation like the attempted suicide, to bring others to his personal self. Or even a way to help separate him, the whole world is inside the sweater and he's outside, he's different, he's lower than the others. There are a lot of possibilities and those were just a few but I fell they may have an impact as well. :)

One point I noticed was there might have been some connection between Brian being the one most scandalized and in a panic over the marijuana(the movie underlined this quite a few times)... and yet he seemed to be the one who later most enjoyed getting high...he was goofy, confident, talking about how chicks can’t hold dey smoke! Like he was some expert...yet he was cute and happy and making people smile and respond to him there. I thought that kinda showed a very unexpected flexibility in his character. But not quite insightful enough to extrapolate the full meaning behind it. Anyway great video, really phenomenal observations and I’m highly enjoying the whole series. 😊👏🏼

Wonderful analysis, as always! 🎊👏🏾 Brian has always been my favourite character, and the one that I related to the most. He is truly the heart of the club, being the only one to try to reason with Bender and Andy when they try to fight each other, and writing the essay explaining the kids' opinions to Vernon. I always felt sorry for Brian that he didn't end up in a romantic relationship with anyone. It makes sense that he might be a little too awkward for that yet, and he's the most childlike out of the group, but it still felt like it clashed with the message of the movie. I always hoped that he eventually found someone himself, so that he's no longer "The Fifth Wheel." 🥰📚

I would be interested on your take on the movie "American Beauty"

I wish that in the jacket scene Brian would have taken his jacket off, because their interaction, though trivial, was so meaningful in establishing the assertive leader and the amenable follower. If Bender felt somewhat personally threatened by this innocent gesture, then Brian should blatantly ask: What? Are you the only one allowed to feel hot? I feel like having a bit more confidence and carelessness regarding what others might think would have defined Brian as someone to be respected within the group despite his vulnerable, nerdy demeanor. He would perhaps become more remarkable as one of the other kids, much like Bender and Allison, who respect each other in spite of their differences. Sure, it would be incongruent considering his character and the phase he was living then, but I Iike to believe with maturity and new found confidence he began to stand up for himself. It's one of those moments, when you look back into past experiences and you know if you were to live it again, everything would be played out differently. I guess this is me being hopeful for myself as well, because I identify with both Brian and Allison to some extent.

@bowdencable7094

3 жыл бұрын

Honestly, Brian does a perfect example of fawning. He senses a threat and goes into fight-flight-freeze-fawn. In fact he does both of the last two.

@gooseamoose3763

3 жыл бұрын

I actually like Brian as he is, but I totally agree with you. However, Brian would then become a different character if he ha more confidence. I think that Brian could have gained more confidence in this movie, but he didn’t (which makes me upset because he is my favorite character.) If Brian had been confidant at the beginning, there would be no room for character development, a character that’s just Johnny one note. But I agree with you that Brian definitely would be respected if he had more confidence- if he was more comfortable in his own skin.

@anna_caps

3 жыл бұрын

@@gooseamoose3763 I agree with you completely. He could have been given more development in the movie, but I understand it can take years for a person to make ammends with herself and be comfortable in their own skin, as you said.

If you're reading this, I want you to know that you don't have to have a demonstrably bad life to justify your real feelings. There is no bad life competition. As a young person, I had undiagnosed major depressive disorder. I felt that there was nothing wrong enough with my life to justify the way I felt. So I didn't tell anyone. I kept my pain hidden. I thought I was broken. I contemplated suicide for years, and came close a few times. I am now a fully therapeutically medicated adult. I wish I had people in my life that told me it was okay to feel my feelings, and told me it was okay to get help.

I relate most to Allison and Brian.

I'm a creative writing student at uni and I'd like to say that this video was the best kind of anything that I could have came across. your character analysis on Brian really helped me found my own voice as a writer. I''ve never looked at Brian as anything more than the brain of the group, but as you talked about how passive he is as a character, it really inspired me to just write about my own experience of being an expressionless person. just listening to you talk about whatever, looking at things from your own interpretations really helps me get into that zone where I can just think about my own thoughts and write them down. You are awesome

Well shit I think you've put into words what I felt towards/about my parents during high school along with just parts of me in high school I've never been able to put into words

I think i am going to watch this movie again. Maybe my teenage daughter would enjoy it. Then i could show her these videos. She is constantly writing stories. These characters are amazing, and i think she will fall in love with them. I had forgotten how good this movie was.

I feel that Brian asserts himself throughout the entire movie. Bender makes the most noise so you notice him first. But the more times I watch the movie the more I like Brian.

Straight up had NO idea I was a Brian personality type, this was very insightful

This video helps me to realize that I was Brian (well I am you know same name) trying to be Bender.

Honestly, I never thought Brian was forgettable, on the contrary he is the character I connect with the most. I experienced a very similar internal conflict. I found his expression to be the most emotional because I could slip into his shoes more than I ever could with the other characters. I was extremely awkward, shy, and submissive in high school and college, and I caved into pressure. I didn't stand up for myself, and I didn't seek out relationships because I saw myself as inferior, and not even worth the time of day for others. I never participated in sports or any extracurricular activity. I just completed my assignments, tried my best to follow regulations and guidelines. I even hated conflict of any kind. And... I've even contemplated suicide. I'm almost exactly like Brian in many regards.

Weirdly Brian is the youngest and the most child-like but is also the most mature in terms of understanding the world around him. It's why he asks if they are friends now and if they are going to be friends on Monday because he knows if he doesn't ask that question he knows what the answer will be - if he does ask the question he is challenging them to stay friends if he doesn't then he senses they will probably return to the status quo under peer pressure. Brian sees that this is his chance to become more within the schools structure and take a little bit of power and control in his life - he needs them to at least acknowledge that they SHOULD stay friendly on Monday because if that happens then he knows he has a chance to break out from the cage that is his life and become something more - he's not sure what that's going to be but he knows he desperately wants it. If on Monday even one of the others acknowledges and accepts him then he's opened the door to become something more than he is now. The one character they probably should have had was the joker - the kid who desperately tries to ingratiate himself by being funny and friendly good to be around - there are heaps of kids like that and a lot of the time it's driven by a desperate need to not be sidelined and forgotten - the people are often either physically different (short, fat etc) or their parents are aloof and they desperately want acceptance and acknowledgement - its the one stereotype that really wasn't addressed in the film that would have worked because everyone of the kids (including Brian) is actually fairly conventionally attractive and it would have been interesting to see someone who frankly wasn't.

51 views in first couple minutes and no dislikes, thats what i wanna see in all these videos, because i have only learnt so many things since discovering this beautiful and amazing channel👍❤

I think the way Brian mocks Allison at some points is because they are in a similar position regarding the relationship with their parents. They both are dressed and fed, they should be grateful, but they are still lacking so much. It shows his struggles with himself. My childhood was pretty much like Brian's. I was the smartest sibling, high expectations, the only girl (so I had to fit in the mold my mother and grandmother shaped for me), never really heard or seen. Although I went to choir for about ten years and having solos, I never felt really heard or seen. I was always thought of as shy and people were extremely suprised when I opened up at conversations and parties. If your parents are the ones who don't want to see you, the real you and don't listen to you, why talk? I started therapy when I was 27 years old and it took me months to be able to phrase what I was struggling with. Because I always thought I don't matter that much and that my problems aren't real problems. When I told my mother, that I was suffering from depression and would start a therapy, she was like: "Oh, but why? You have everything you need, right? We all love you, right? There can't be something wrong!". My grandmother said exactly the same.

@Aloisk2012

3 жыл бұрын

I feel that. I'm the eldest brother/sibling in my family (and eldest cousin on both side too) and only started therapy this Jan (I'm 21 rn) as a way to work through the deaths of two of my friends. But there were lots of other things before too, not being seen, being emotionally neglected etc. that came out later. I totally get that feeling that you shouldn't feel that way when if you look from the outside-in how life seems to be in the bag. But the feelings are there anyway. Hope you're doing better now!

I could cry. The depth of this movie and it’s characters has truly captured me. I just feel madly about this brilliant piece at the moment.

Wow. This feels a lot like a description of how cptsd feels to me. Amazing.

BEANNNNSSSSSS, anyone else catch it

@plop.mp3246

3 жыл бұрын

8:00 😏😏💅👛💅👛💅🧑🏼‍🦲😏😱😱

@szinyk

3 жыл бұрын

I did notice that, seemed odd. Is it like a meme or in joke for the channel?

@TheEplestugas

3 жыл бұрын

@@szinyk It should be.

@BY-bj6ic

3 жыл бұрын

Heinz beans no less. Probably a way to foil the copyright trolls

Breakfast Club is kind of a masterpiece in character study. I've heard the actors had a bit of a say with these characters and I think they all are some of the most human feelings in movies form the 80s. I really love this series. Excellent job.

“I’m the bit that’s wrong” ouch dude that hurt more than I expected it to.

There are lots of little clues and Easter eggs relating to various characters in the opening scenes. One that people haven't mention that has to do with Brian is the license plate on the family car: "EMC2". That speaks volumes about his family; his father/mother. They were also apparently the nerds in school, and managed to be successful coming out of that into the adult world. We are shown very sneakily that THEY want to wave that flag by displaying Einstein's formula on their vanity license plate, and we learn that they carry that over to using their children as flags to wave as well. Brian is clearly smart and perhaps greatly enjoys his clubs, but has been clearly pressured by his parents regarding his academics. His mother snaps at him to, "Use the time to your advantage," and "Well mister you figure out a WAY to study..." Whether the clubs are part of the pressure isn't important - it's apparent that more than enough pressure comes to him from his parents regarding grades. Brian even laments later that the F in shop class will continue to cause grief, bringing his semester average down to a B. It's less his own disappointment he'll be dealing with but his parents disappointment - he feels like the pressure is now only going to get worse. "I can't have an F. I know I can't... My parents REALLY can't." And his "sneering" at Allison and Bender only come later - when normal tensions between the characters have already begun to ease. I felt like Brian's reaction to Allison is actually his first step to actually opening up. He's mostly the peacemaker in the group, but suddenly there he is being rudely dismissive of Allison. She's been quiet and unobtrusive until then - far more so than Brian - so she's a "safe" initial target for him to shoot at, much as Bender has been shooting at him. And in that scene with him, Andrew and Allison, notice that Andrew has suddenly taken on something of the persona that would be expected from Brian. He's reserved, speaking carefully and intelligently, with his hands folded in front of him. Like some kind of guru while Brian assumes what would be a new persona for him, borrowed from Bender and/or Andrew. Roles in that scene have been switched, and Andrew even carries it further when he chases after Allison when she storms off and he continues to question her about her recent revelations. But Brian has been largely let off the hook for his dismissive attitude toward Allison. He CAN be assertive and rude like Bender and get away with it. Then he uses that newfound assertiveness to stand up to Bender later and it seems certain that they'd have gone round and round had Claire not intervened and cut them both off with, "Okay, so neither of you is any better than the other." And then he uses it again against Claire, actually swearing at her. His shell has broken (and to some extent he's the one who broke it) and it hurts to break out of the warmth and safety of that shell into the cold light and reveal himself more fully to the others - and he talks about the gun. I think part of the thing about the gun being a flare gun IS just for a joke. It's intentional to make it a flare gun. It's been set up by the author to provide a needed break/transition from the increasingly serious and emotionally intense scenes, and lead into the denouement of the film. The film jumps almost right after it into the dancing scene with the upbeat music, with the lyrics, "We are not alone . Find out when your cover's blown there'll be somebody there to break your fall. We are not alone. 'Cause when you cut down to the bone, we're really not so different after all." Music in the movie seems quite carefully chosen for the lyrics. But then introducing the gun at all as an issue for Brian clearly is trying to demonstrate how severe an effect the pressure from his parents has had on him. Even if he amusingly winds up with just a flare gun that burns up his locker - he was moving quite deliberately in the direction of suicide and that part of the introduction of the gun was not meant as a joke. But then as noted by others, Brian has evolved over the course of the movie just as much as the others. He laughs at his own comedic misfortune with the gun - but now doesn't seem to need it. He's moved past that. He's in the middle of the three males as they dance together - now symbolically part of the group. Instead of being shown always at the back of the group and a head lower, as they exit he is IN FRONT of the whole group and walking more confidently. And one last subtle thing: In the opening shots, Carl, the janitor is shown with his picture on the wall - Man of the Year at the school in 1969 - and here he is now: the school janitor. When he first enters the library he personally greets Brian. _They know each other._ That's a phenomenon I noticed in my school days; that the nerd kids were far more likely to be personally familiar with the school staff. My supposition as to why would be that because they get cut off from acceptance from the mainstream of kids their own age they seek acceptance and friendship from the next closest adults. That and their after-school activities might bring them into closer contact. Jocks, for example, might use the gym, but then shower and LEAVE rather than hang around and talk to the janitor who comes in to clean up after them - like Brian and Larry would. And when Bender starts talking to Carl in the movie it becomes quite clear that Carl is perfectly happy where he is, and how his Man of the Year trajectory put him there. This, too is then an unintended push upon Brian when he hears this exchange - YOU don't have to follow the Man of the Year path that someone else is laying out for you. Like me, you can just be a janitor and still be happy with your life. John Hughes produced just freakin' brilliant writing for this movie, and followed it up with stellar direction and film production.

Brian remains one of the only characters ever that I related to. The other being Dawn from Welcome to the Dollhouse. Very accurate.

Not gonna lie, the moment he revealed the gun I audibly gasped. He's so inconspicuous that I did not see it coming at all... the revelation made my heart drop.

@phoenixshadow4631

3 жыл бұрын

Most people dont that's why suicides are shocking one day someone's the perfect child with a happy life the next they're gone with nothing left but a note and the 4 to 5 actual friends they had being left extremely sad. As someone who has been regarded as a nerd and a genius while also being ugly I was bullied much like him. I live in a broken home my father was neglectful towards me and abusive towards most of my siblings so I lived with a single mom for most of my life. When I was ten I wanted to make an attempt as every authority figure I had was pretty distant (my mom worked 3 jobs at the time, my siblings were all either ignorant of me or abusive towards me, and the teachers and counselor all thought of me as nothing but a tattletale or weakling as well as a loud mouth trouble maker because so many people bullied me daily and I would always jump at the chance to talk in class to try and stay in the adults good sides or at least that's what it felt like) and I hate to say it but the only reason I'm not 6 feet under is because of my dog at the time which literally tugged at my pant leg causing me to put down the knife and just go cuddle and cry myself to sleep. It felt like a failure and like I was causing more trouble then I was worth. I eventually split off from most people becoming a loner for around 6 years only socializing when forced to or when I felt like I was amongst fellow nerds and victims. I've gotten past that now largely due to my understanding of people changing over time, but I can never forget that I would have just been another statistic that people didn't expect to be gone like that. It's a large part of why I refuse to get therapy for my very obvious (at least in person) depression, because I was failed by people before I cant trust properly now and those very select few who I can trust would be hurt much more by the shock of me killing myself than some of the adults in my life. My mom would definitely be shattered especially now that she is legally identified as physically disabled and has time to put in, but my dad I honestly feel like he wouldn't care. So I push through by myself using caffeine, music, games, reading, movies, whatever I can to be free of my self or to relate myself to others for even a few minutes.

@efoxkitsune9493

3 жыл бұрын

@@phoenixshadow4631 Hey, thank you for sharing your story. I hope it helped at least a little bit to get it off your chest. I'm very sorry that happened to you. You're dealing with a lot, and I'm really glad you're still here and kicking. I'm glad your dog was there for emotional support - they really are amazing. I'm more of a cat person myself haha, but I can imagine. I love my two beautiful kitties with everything I have. As for therapy, that's of course entirely your decision to make. I totally understand why you would have a hard time trusting, that's perfectly valid. I myself would definitely recommend it - depression and trauma are no game, and some things are just impossible to solve on our own. Just like you would go to a doctor with any kind of physical injury so that they can treat it and help it heal properly - this is no different, only the injury or illness is not readily visible. Some of the people closes to me are or were in active treatment, and they wouldn't be here now of it wasn't for it. I know I'm just a random stranger on the internet, so my word means nothing, but that's what I can say from my experience. I can at least assure you that a good therapis won't push you to tell anything you're not comfortable with/ready for, and you're the one in charge of the session - _you're_ the client, they're working for _you,_ they're there to help _you._ But like I said. That decision is entirely yours to make. I really hope you have someone to talk to though. Bottom line, there is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of or embarassed about. In any case, I'm wishing you healing and happiness. I hope the future has loads of good things in store for you. Take care of yourself! And pet your dog for me! :)

@phoenixshadow4631

3 жыл бұрын

@@efoxkitsune9493 oh trust me I know these things now but I've gotten to a point where my depression brings almost nothing negative into my life anymore and I've been at a point where I can share for a few years now without much issue so I always like to tell my story a little bit just to make peopke think and try to stick that point in that it's almost never who you'd expect in incidences of suicide, shootings, and the like

@efoxkitsune9493

3 жыл бұрын

@@phoenixshadow4631 Gotcha. Well that's good to hear!

Brian writes the essay in the end. That always got me.

This one got to me, I had to stop halfway for a second. Repressed anger turning to melancholy, parents that tried their best but still caused damage, the internal struggle of it all. I watched this movie as a kid and I feel like I should watch it again but it would resonate too much with my high school and young adult experience that I’m still grieving and processing. Thanks for posting this in-depth character analysis.

Brian is honestly the most relatable character to me.

Could have a narcissistic personality disorder parent. The gaslighting and emotional under the radar abuse is very frustrating. The surface family looks so perfect and you sit there and you know somethings wrong but you can't figure out what it is. You spend your life trying not to make waves and keep everyone happy...

I don't usually comment on videos, but I want to this time. I cried watching this. I have never seen the breakfeast club movie(I defenitley will now), but this analysis made me realize so much about myself. I related to, not everything, but a lot of Brians problems. Submissiveness, afraid of conflict, but especially feeling like I can't have my own problems because others have it worse, and hating myself for feeling sorry for myself. Hearing that this isn't weird or despiteful made me so incredibly relieved. Thank you.

@CHIEFJAC

3 жыл бұрын

Damn. yea it’s a pretty good movie i can relate to certain aspects of him too

@mylittlethoughttree

3 жыл бұрын

That's really touching to hear, thankyou for the comment 😊

Your Allison video had me hugging myself crying unexpectedly because I've been in love with that character since high school and honestly sorta always saw her as simultaneously myself and also the kind of girl I'd easily fall in love with and truly want to love, because it hit so close to home what she was feeling... these videos are amazing. A true testament to the quality of actors and the writing in this film.

Lovely analysis, aw I have such a soft spot for Brian now. Was probably my favorite film as a teenager in the 80s, so much love for all the characters.

He was my fav tbh. He has a special place in my heart. Parts of him heavily relate to how I used to be. Hell some of his aspects still apply.. He deserves better.

@iLikeCok

Жыл бұрын

100% agree. He reminds me of myself

the exploded locker is such a potent visual metaphor for brian, just keeping his negative emotions locked up so tight inside until he just can't take it- hence the suicide attempt. I wish it got a little more of a moment within the film.

Your videos on The Breakfast Club this year have been a brilliant way for me to explore one of my all-time favourite films, and this video in particular hit home (and made me realise why I have always low-key identified with Brian...!) Thanks for your channel. Big fan in Bristol!

Brian's vid is the longest one yet? Let's goooooo!

i like brian because he was kind, he had a heart even in the chaos. i can relate to the fact i always feel like a baby around my piers no matter how i try to understand, im always confused XD

Brian was my favorite character. He sees behind others' facade, understands the rest of the kids better than they do themselves. But I also think that his concern about others is a distraction about himself.

Wow this is the mirror image of my situation at home and when I was in high-school

the hidden heinz beanz is the highlight of my day

when you look at it, writing the essay was kind of passive aggressive too because he is expressing himself indirectly.

Media influences us with and without our knowledge. This movie means a lot to the people who watched it in theaters and the people that watch it on Netflix. Brian means a lot to me in ways that if I found a way to put into words, wouldn't be of any interest to you or your comment section I appreciate everything you do. The way you convey your thoughts are so intellectual and your observance comes through in your work. Incredible video as always.

Of all the characters, I see myself the most in Brian. So thank you for making this video dissecting his character, it helped me learn more about myself.