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Molly Ringwald, the iconic star of 1980s cinema, has recently opened up about her intricate relationship with the late filmmaker John Hughes. Known for directing classics such as Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink, Hughes played a pivotal role in shaping Ringwald’s early career. However, as she revisits those formative years, she expresses a nuanced perspective on their dynamic, revealing layers of complexity that were not apparent at the time.
The muse and the filmmaker
In a candid interview on Monica Lewinsky’s podcast, Reclaiming, Ringwald reflected on Hughes’ assertion that she was his muse. At the tender age of 15, she found it difficult to fully grasp the implications of such a label. “In terms of, did I know that I was a ‘muse,’ he told me that but when you’re that age, I had nothing really to compare it to,” she shared. Now, looking back, she describes the relationship as “peculiar,” acknowledging the blend of admiration and discomfort that accompanies such a title.
Processing the past
Ringwald’s reflections extend beyond mere nostalgia; they delve into the complexities of power dynamics in their relationship. She recalls how Hughes, already in his 30s, wrote Sixteen Candles after only seeing her headshot. This revelation has led her to ponder the lasting effects of their collaboration on her life and career. “It’s definitely complex and it’s something that I turn over in my head a lot and try to figure out how that all affected me,” she explained. This ongoing process of reflection highlights the challenges of reconciling past experiences with present understanding.
Revisiting Hughes’ legacy
In her 2018 essay for The New Yorker, Ringwald addressed the broader implications of Hughes’ work, particularly the themes of sexism, racism, and homophobia that permeate his films. Watching The Breakfast Club with her daughter prompted her to question the cultural narratives that these films perpetuate. “How are we meant to feel about art that we both love and oppose?” she asked, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging both the merits and the shortcomings of artistic legacies. This duality reflects a growing awareness in contemporary discourse about the responsibilities of artists and the impact of their work.
Despite the complexities of her relationship with Hughes, Ringwald remains proud of the films they created together. She acknowledges the profound influence Hughes had on her career, stating, “John believed in me, and in my gifts as an actress, more than anyone else I’ve known.” As she continues to navigate her feelings about their collaboration, Ringwald’s insights serve as a reminder of the intricate interplay between art, artist, and audience.