-via IMDb.com
I've always remembered this film with some fondness. So when I revisited recently, I was shocked at the sexism and racism in the movie. Written and directed by John Hughes, you come to expect a level of sweetness in the film, a connection to teenage angst that is explored and honoured. There are elements here but it is almost overshadowed by the sexism and racism.
Sixteen Candles is the story of Samantha, a girl celebrating her sixteenth Birthday by herself because her family has forgotten it, wrapped up in the machinations of preparing for her sister's wedding. Samantha, played by Molly Ringwald, floats through the day and night, pining over her crush and putting up with Anthony Michael Hall's Geek. The racism is provided by Gedde Watanabe's Long Duk Dong, a collection of crude stereotypes, played for laughs, and everyone around him being racist. The sexism is everywhere else: the Geek taking advantage of a drunk, passed out girl, stuff surrounding the wedding, it can go on.
There are funny moments but I spent a lot of time cringing, so decide for yourself. It's considered a classic but I'm not sure it deserves it, sadly.
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