R.I.P. John Hughes
Thu, August 6, 2009 
TMZ has breaking news that John Hughes has died from a heart attack. What was my first reaction to hearing this a few minutes ago? "Shit..."
I'm 25 years old and played a number of his films in heavy rotation during my adolescent years. For anyone of my generation, you know what I'm talking about. Hughes was the screenwriter-turned-director/producer responsible for such films as The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Sixteen Candles.
My favorite of his work (and among my Top 10 favorite films) was Planes, Trains & Automobiles. Playing our VHS copy of the Steve Martin/John Candy comedy (taped off its Thanksgiving Day 1996 broadcast on the USA Network with commercials, no less) has become an annual tradition over the years now.
I realize the man hasn't directed a film since the 1991 bomb Curly Sue. But his influence is felt all over the place - especially in the "teen comedy" market. In fact, an old teacher of mine regards 1999's 10 Things I Hate About You as the best John Hughes movie he never made.
He will be missed.
Reader Comments (3)
When TMZ reported it, I had some small hope it wasn't true. Unfortunately, Variety has since confirmed it.
RIP John, you made some excellent movies and you will never be forgotten by my generation.
If it weren't so late, I'd watch Planes, Trains and Automobiles right now.
What the hell, I will.......for you Mr Hughes.
There goes another piece of my childhood. RIP John Hughes, you were an true icon.