John Hughes is one of the most influential filmmakers of all time. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, he created hit after hit after hit, whether it was by directing, writing, producing, or sometimes all three. If you want to discover his 10 best movies and where to stream them, check out our guide below.
Hughes first came to prominence thanks to the 1983 movie Vacation (which ranks #5 on the list). The movie was inspired by Hughes’ short story Vacation ‘58 and he also adapted his story into the screenplay. Centered around a family that goes on an epic (and disastrous) family road trip, the movie is undeniably hilarious…and also incredibly relatable.
As the years have gone on, its sequel Christmas Vacation has become even more beloved and takes the #2 spot on the list. The sequel was also based on one of Hughes’ short stories and he again was tasked with turning it into a screenplay, but this time around he also took on producing duties. In the 1989 film, the Griswolds attempt to put on the perfect Christmas celebration, and naturally, it all goes to hell. Christmas Vacation isn’t just funny, it’s also super relatable, which is why it has become a perennial holiday favorite.
And who can craft a John Hughes list without including his iconic teen movies like Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club? While both films obviously make the list, some might be surprised to see they don’t take the top spots. While both movies are truly iconic and memorable – the song “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” is probably playing in your head right now – they haven’t withstood the test of time as well as Hughes’ other films.
In the modern era and with the recognition society has had of privilege and oppression in recent years, parts of Hughes’ 1980s teen comedies can feel somewhat petty, with the characters sometimes creating a lot of drama over minute issues. While these films might have felt real and fresh in the ‘80s, nowadays they can feel slightly trivial. Regardless, both movies remain enjoyable watches and have rightfully earned their spot on the Top 10 list.
So, what film took the #1 spot? That would be the epic holiday classic Home Alone. Memorable, iconic, fun, funny, and filled with holiday cheer, Home Alone feels like a cartoon came to life. Despite centering on a child left home alone on Christmas while burglars break in (which could easily be a horror movie), thanks to Hughes’ excellent script, the movie instead turned into a hilarious cat-and-mouse chase between the young Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) and the bumbling duo, the “Wet Bandits”. Home Alone is absurd, but it’s also insanely entertaining and somehow fits perfectly with the madness of the Christmas season.
What other John Hughes movies made the top 10 list? Check out our guide below to discover the filmmaker’s 10 best movies and where to watch them.
