Most Gen Xers will remember with fondness the infamous “Brat Pack,” a group of young stars who ruled the entertainment world back in the mid-1980s. Nobody was bigger than these actors, including Rob Lowe, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, and Judd Nelson. But with that superstardom and unfortunate moniker came decades of sadness, regret, and pain.

One of the original members of the Pack, Andrew McCarthy, decided to make a film to deal with the group’s shared experiences after being collectively labeled by an article in New York magazine in 1985. The result is “Brats,” a deeply personal and surprisingly insightful documentary.

This is a terrific film, especially if you’re interested in the subjects. McCarthy has a personal connection that gives him more intimate access to his former co-stars (many of whom he hasn’t seen nor spoken to in over 30 years). Some are more forthcoming than others (the raw honesty and heartfelt interviews resemble difficult therapy sessions, especially with an incredibly open Moore and a standoffish, obviously still-pained Estevez), and a couple of the former Brat Pack refuse to talk to him at all. But what is revealed is fascinating in a way that’s unexpected, and it’s clear almost all of them have been living with a heavy burden from the typecasting that significantly impacted their careers and personal lives.

McCarthy has created a cathartic experience for all of the actors involved, but he also includes perspectives from fans and cultural critics. He’s chosen an interesting mix of subjects to interview, and most of them are eager to discuss the enduring legacy of the Brat Pack films and their place (that’s firmly cemented) in cinematic history.

It’s a ton of fun to revisit the actors that defined a generation, but this documentary is so much more than just a nostalgic trip back to the 80s. What makes “Brats” so powerful is the way McCarthy’s introspective journey grows into a deep dive into the psychology and consequences of fame and the weight of labels. The film is a reflection on the power of words and their lasting impact, and is a reminder of how important it is to chose them carefully.

By: Louisa Moore / SCREEN ZEALOTS