Pretty in Pink," a beloved 1986 romantic comedy-drama, remains an iconic film from the 1980s. Directed by Howard Deutch and written by John Hughes, the movie has left a lasting impact on pop culture. Here are 50 things you might not know about "Pretty in Pink":
1. Alternate Ending
The original ending had Andie (Molly Ringwald) ending up with Duckie (Jon Cryer), but test audiences reacted poorly, leading to a reshoot where she ends up with Blane (Andrew McCarthy).
2. Inspiration for the Title
The film’s title comes from the song "Pretty in Pink" by The Psychedelic Furs, which was re-recorded specifically for the movie.
3. John Hughes’ Influence
John Hughes wrote the script in just a few days, showcasing his rapid and creative writing process.
4. Molly Ringwald’s Influence
Molly Ringwald was Hughes' muse, and he wrote the character Andie specifically with her in mind.
5. Duckie’s Character
Jon Cryer’s character, Duckie, was inspired by Hughes’ best friend from high school.
6. Costume Designer
The movie's fashion, particularly Andie’s unique style, was crafted by costume designer Marilyn Vance.
7. Andie’s Prom Dress
The pink prom dress that Andie wears was designed to be deliberately unique, reflecting her creative, DIY fashion sense.
8. Duckie’s Signature Dance
Jon Cryer improvised the iconic dance scene to Otis Redding’s "Try a Little Tenderness."
9. James Spader’s Role
James Spader, who played the snobbish Steff, was known for playing antagonistic characters during the 1980s.
10. Andrew McCarthy’s Wig
During the reshoots, Andrew McCarthy had shaved his head for a play, so he wore a wig for the new scenes.
11. John Hughes Cameo
John Hughes makes a brief cameo appearance in the film as a teacher at Andie’s high school.
12. Filming Location
The high school scenes were filmed at John Marshall High School in Los Angeles, California.
13. The Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack was highly successful and included hits like "If You Leave" by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD).
14. OMD’s Contribution
"If You Leave" was written specifically for the film after the ending was changed.
15. Molly Ringwald’s Real-Life Influences
Ringwald drew inspiration for her performance from her own experiences as a teenager.
16. Rejected Actors
Anthony Michael Hall turned down the role of Duckie, not wanting to be typecast.
17. Duckie’s Name Origin
Duckie’s real name is Philip F. Dale, but he’s called Duckie due to his quirky personality.
18. Cult Following
Despite mixed reviews initially, "Pretty in Pink" has developed a significant cult following over the years.
19. Box Office Success
The film grossed over $40 million in the U.S. alone, a significant success for its time.
20. Howard Deutch’s Directorial Debut
"Pretty in Pink" was Howard Deutch’s first film as a director.
21. Ringwald’s Favorite Film
Molly Ringwald has stated that "Pretty in Pink" is one of her favorite films that she’s acted in.
22. Andie’s Car
Andie drives a pink 1959 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, which has become iconic.
23. Cultural Impact
The film has been referenced and parodied in various TV shows, movies, and music videos over the years.
24. Duckie’s Style
Duckie’s fashion sense, including his iconic white shoes, was inspired by classic Hollywood actors.
25. Blane’s Name
Andrew McCarthy’s character Blane was named after a kid Hughes disliked in high school.
26. Kim Cattrall Audition
Kim Cattrall auditioned for the role of Iona, Andie’s older friend and mentor.
27. Harry Dean Stanton’s Role
Harry Dean Stanton, who played Andie’s father, was cast due to his ability to convey vulnerability and warmth.
28. The Record Store
The scenes at Trax, the record store where Andie works, were filmed at an actual record store in Los Angeles.
29. "Try a Little Tenderness"
The scene featuring Duckie lip-syncing to "Try a Little Tenderness" was shot in a single take.
30. Ringwald’s Age
Molly Ringwald was only 17 years old during the filming of "Pretty in Pink."
31. Post-Production Changes
The studio pressured changes in post-production, leading to the reshoot of the film’s ending.
32. Ad-Libbed Lines
Many of Jon Cryer’s lines as Duckie were ad-libbed, showcasing his comedic talent.
33. Duckie’s Signature Look
Duckie’s wardrobe was inspired by a combination of thrift store finds and Cryer’s own suggestions.
34. Deleted Scenes
Several scenes, including more backstory on Steff and Benny, were cut from the final film.
35. Duckie’s Legacy
The character of Duckie has inspired similar characters in other films and TV shows.
36. Soundtrack Sales
The soundtrack became one of the most successful movie soundtracks of the 1980s.
37. Steff’s Character
James Spader’s character, Steff, was originally intended to be less villainous but evolved during filming.
38. Andie’s Bedroom
Andie’s bedroom was designed to reflect her eclectic and creative personality, filled with DIY projects.
39. The Rich vs. Poor Theme
The film explores themes of class differences and social status, which resonated with many viewers.
40. Behind-the-Scenes Chemistry
Despite the romantic tension onscreen, the cast got along well offscreen, contributing to the film’s success.
41. Ringwald’s Input
Molly Ringwald had input into her character’s wardrobe, ensuring Andie’s style felt authentic.
42. Hughes’ Inspiration
John Hughes drew inspiration for the story from his own teenage experiences and observations.
43. Duckie’s Personality
Duckie’s eccentric personality was inspired by the classic film characters of the 1930s and 1940s.
44. Costume Controversy
The prom dress design was controversial, with some crew members disliking the final look.
45. Hughes’ Cameo
John Hughes appears briefly in the movie, blending into the background as an extra.
46. The Dance Scene
The dance scene at the prom was choreographed to feel authentic and unscripted.
47. Andie’s Friendships
Andie’s relationships with her friends, particularly Iona and Duckie, were central to the film’s emotional core.
48. Iconic Dialogue
Many lines from the film, such as "I live to like you," have become iconic in pop culture.
49. Teen Angst
The film captured the essence of teen angst and unrequited love, making it relatable to its audience.
50. Legacy
"Pretty in Pink" remains a defining film of the 1980s, continuing to inspire new generations with its timeless themes and memorable characters.
These lesser-known facts highlight the creative efforts, behind-the-scenes decisions, and cultural impact that have contributed to "Pretty in Pink’s" enduring legacy.
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