Insights

In 1985, rising star Andrew McCarthy was labeled as part of the "Brat Pack," a group of young actors changing Hollywood during the Reagan administration. This label had a significant impact on McCarthy's life, leading to PTSD and a struggle to shake off the stigma. Almost 40 years later, McCarthy directed a documentary called "Brats" to explore how the pack members handled the label. Despite the challenges, McCarthy's road movie celebrates Brat Pack movies. He also wrote about his experience in "Brat: An '80s Story," likening the label to his Moby Dick. McCarthy finally confronts David Blum, the journalist who coined the term, in the film, showing understanding and even admiration for him.