The 1985 classic, St. Elmo’s Fire, remains a touchstone in cinematic history, not just for its exploration of young adulthood, but also for its association with the “Brat Pack,” a group of young actors who defined that era of film. One of the movie’s many stars, Rob Lowe, has revealed that a potential sequel is in the works, reigniting interest in the film and the actors who brought it to life.
St. Elmo’s Fire (1985)
St. Elmo’s Fire portrays the story of seven college graduates from Washington, DC‘s Georgetown University as they navigate the complexities of adulthood. Its characters, played by Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, Andrew McCarthy, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy and Mare Winningham, grapple with love, friendship and career aspirations, all while trying to maintain their close-knit bond.
The movie was directed by the late Joel Schumacher, who also co-wrote the script with Carl Kurlander. It resonated deeply with audiences, as it captures the essence of post-college uncertainty and the struggles of finding one’s path in life.
Box office domination of the “Brat Pack”
Upon its release, St. Elmo’s Fire received largely negative critical reviews. That being said, it fast became a cultural phenomenon. Critics were divided on the film’s portrayal of young adults, but audiences were captivated by its relatable themes and charismatic cast. It was a box office smash, grossing a whopping $37.8 million on a mere $10 million budget.
The movie’s success solidified the popularity of the Brat Pack, a term coined by David Blum in a 1985 magazine article to describe the group of actors frequently seen in 1980s coming-of-age films. This ensemble, known for their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, became emblematic of a generation, appearing in other notable films, such as The Breakfast Club (1985) and Sixteen Candles (1984).
Brats (2024) documentary
In a testament to the enduring fascination with the Brat Pack, Andrew McCarthy directed a documentary, titled Brats. The film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the lives and careers of the Brat Pack’s members, featuring interviews with Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Emilio Estevez and Ally Sheedy.
The documentary explores how the term “Brat Pack” affected each actor differently, with Lowe saying how, despite its negative connotation, the nickname ultimately brought the group closer together. Brats provides an intimate glimpse into the group’s dynamic and the impact of their collective work on Hollywood and pop culture.
The release has not only revived interest in the Brat Pack, but it’s also sparked conversations about their legacy and influence.
Is a sequel to St. Elmo’s Fire (1985) in the works?
In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Rob Lowe hinted at the possibility of a St. Elmo’s Fire sequel.
Speaking alongside his son, John Owen Lowe, about their Netflix comedy series, the actor revealed discussions have been ongoing for several months. “We’ve met with the studio and I have been talking about doing it for about four months,” Lowe explained.
Lowe himself acknowledged that McCarthy’s documentary has “only added to the excitement” surrounding a potential follow-up to the ’80s classic. However, the actor cautioned the project is currently in the “very, very, very, very, very early stages,” leaving fans eagerly awaiting further developments.
Sparking renewed interest in the Brat Pack
The release of Brats has undeniably rekindled interest in the Brat Pack and their body of work. The documentary has not only reminded audiences of St. Elmo’s Fire‘s significance, but it’s also highlighted the timeless nature of the film’s themes.
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With the possibility of a sequel now on the horizon, the documentary has played a crucial role in generating buzz and anticipation. We will be keeping our eyes peeled for any more information about the project!