Chinich, M. (Producer), &
Hughes, J. (Director). (1986). Ferris Bueller's
Day Off [Motion picture].
United States of America: Paramount. ISBN 1415742723
Plot Summary
High school senior Ferris Bueller, on a whim, decides to fake being sick in order have a day off with his girlfriend, Sloane, and best friend, Cameron. He notes that, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." With this as his motivation, the extremely charismatic Ferris constructs an elaborate scene in his room to fool any onlookers, orchestrates a plot involving a supposedly dead relative to get Sloane out of class, drives a Ferrari, eats at a fancy French restaurant, visits a museum, and dances on a float in a Chicago parade. Throughout all of this, Ferris must thwart and dodge the dean of his school, who suspects he is up to something, and his sister who knows something is.
Critical Evaluation
This coming-of-age story is as much about Ferris' friend Cameron as it is Ferris himself. Ferris breaks the fourth wall, talking to the audience, explaining his motivations and charming his way into viewers hearts as effortlessly as he does to almost everyone else in the film. This nonchalance is a direct juxtaposition to his friend Cameron, a nervous, unsure teen. Where Ferris is self-assured, Cameron is questioning. While Ferris is always suave with women, Cameron has never had a relationship. When Ferris' parents think he is ill, their hearts pour out whereas Cameron's father--who is never seen--is remarked as being overbearing and the source of his insecurities. Part of the greatness of this film is the dynamic between these two friends. At one point, Cameron remarks that Ferris does not care about him, but it comes as a revelation, not a condemnation, and Cameron begins to realize his self-worth in part because he also realizes that Ferris really does care about him--Ferris attempts to save him from "drowning" and volunteers to take the blame over a destroyed Ferrari--just not about the trivial things.
Ferris is going to fool everyone, skipping school to experience fine dining, cars, art, friends, and be the star of a parade. How are you going to spend your day off?
Genre
Comedy, contemporary
As the dean of Ferris' school, discuss some potential things Ferris has done in the past to warrant suspicion that he is not really ill and to let the uninitiated know more about Ferris' character and charisma.
Reading Level/Interest Age
This film is rated PG-13, likely for some language as there is no sexual content, aside from some kissing, or violence that is not lighthearted or comedic.
Challenge Issues
Some language is offensive, but if challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly. Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone. As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.
Reason Selected
Ferris Bueller is an incredible character in any medium. He is a delinquent, yes, but his motivations are so positive and he is so full of life that it is impossible to not like him. Though it was released in 1986, this movie truly feels timeless.
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