Decade

Decade is a documentary film produced and directed by John Hughes, a renowned American filmmaker celebrated for his work in the adolescent comedy genre, specifically with films like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Released in 1990, the film offers candid interviews and conversations with a wide range of prominent artists, musicians, and celebrities from the 1980s. The documentary is framed as a look back at the decade, which witnessed unparalleled growth and transformation in the world of entertainment, music, television, and politics. As the film delves into the perspectives of various individuals who shaped the 1980s, it uncovers the complexities and nuances of the era. One of the primary subjects of the film is John Mellencamp, an American singer-songwriter known for blending rock with folk influences. When reflecting on the decade, Mellencamp describes the early days of his music career, marked by struggle and perseverance. He expresses his disillusionment with the glam rock culture that dominated the late 1970s and early 1980s, stating that this movement's superficial appeal clashed with his vision for meaningful, down-to-earth songwriting. Mellencamp's commentary on the 1980s underscores a deeper connection to reality, echoing the sentiments shared by several other interviewees. Spike Lee, an American film director, producer, screenwriter, and actor, shares his perspective on the decade through a mix of nostalgia and critique. When discussing his experiences as a young artist in the 1980s, Lee highlights the challenges faced by independent filmmakers of the time. Despite limited resources and opportunities, Lee managed to produce groundbreaking films such as She's Gotta Have It (1986). The director's candid reflections on his professional journey underscore the resilience required to succeed in a rapidly changing industry. Lou Reed, a legendary American musician and singer-songwriter associated with the Velvet Underground, reminisces about the band's early days and its contributions to the development of punk and post-punk music. During the 1980s, Reed's solo work often addressed themes of decay, disillusionment, and urban disaffection. His perspective serves as a poignant reminder of the decade's social and cultural disquietude. Roseanne Barr, an American comedian and actress, recounts her experiences breaking through in the male-dominated world of stand-up comedy. Her reflections are tempered by a nuanced assessment of the industry's constraints and opportunities. As a pioneer for female voices in comedy, Barr confronts the difficulties women endured in the entertainment industry during the 1980s. David Byrne, the iconic singer, songwriter, and co-founder of the rock band Talking Heads, shares his insights on the decade's artistic landscape. He notes the rise of the New Wave movement, characterized by its eclecticism and rejection of traditional music genres. Byrne's observations are rich with detail and humor, offering a compelling perspective on the transformative power of music during this era. George Michael, an English singer, songwriter, and record producer, provides a unique insight into the evolution of pop and rock music in the 1980s. As a key figure in Wham!, one of the decade's most successful pop acts, Michael discusses the creative pressures associated with commercial success and the tension between artistic expression and mainstream expectations. His thoughts underscore the commercial realities facing many artists during the decade. Through the diverse perspectives of these artists, Decade provides an insightful and engaging exploration of the 1980s in entertainment and culture. The film captures the dynamic shifts in music, film, politics, and social attitudes that defined the decade, while also conveying the individual experiences and struggles that occurred behind the scenes. The documentary's loose structure, featuring conversations with various artists, effectively allows their unique voices to shine while creating a compelling narrative that explores the era's complexities. Despite the passing of a few decades, Decade remains a timeless and captivating tribute to the artists, musicians, and filmmakers who helped shape the 1980s.