Who is Duckie in Pretty in Pink?
If you’re a fan of 80s movies, you’re probably familiar with the iconic film “Pretty in Pink.” The movie follows the story of Andie, a teenage girl from a working-class family, who falls in love with Blane, a rich boy from a wealthy family. But there’s another character in the movie who steals the hearts of many viewers – Duckie.
Who is Duckie?
Duckie, played by Jon Cryer, is Andie’s best friend. He’s quirky, lovable, and always dressed in his signature style of vintage clothes, fedoras, and sunglasses. Duckie is head-over-heels in love with Andie, but she sees him only as a friend.
The Inspiration behind Duckie’s Character
Director John Hughes, who wrote and directed “Pretty in Pink,” based Duckie’s character on a childhood friend of his. According to Cryer, the character was inspired by a guy named Matthew, who Hughes had known since childhood.
The Importance of Duckie in “Pretty in Pink”
Duckie‘s character is significant in the movie, as he represents the underdog, the guy who doesn’t get the girl, and the person who doesn’t fit in. He’s relatable to many people, as we’ve all felt like outsiders at some point in our lives. Duckie’s quirky personality, humor, and unwavering loyalty to Andie make him a fan favorite.
The Famous “Try a Little Tenderness” Scene
One of the most memorable scenes in “Pretty in Pink” is when Duckie lip-syncs to Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness” in the record store. The scene showcases Cryer’s exceptional talent and adds to the overall charm of the character.
The Controversy Surrounding Duckie’s Character
Despite Duckie’s popularity, some people have criticized the character for perpetuating toxic masculinity. Some viewers argue that Duckie’s behavior towards Andie is obsessive and controlling. However, others see it as a harmless crush that never crosses the line into harmful behavior.
Cryer’s Defense of Duckie’s Character
In an interview with the Huffington Post, Cryer defended Duckie’s character, stating that he never saw him as controlling or creepy. Cryer argued that Duckie was a guy who had feelings for his best friend but never acted on them, adding that he felt sorry for the character because he never got the girl.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Duckie is an integral part of “Pretty in Pink” and remains a beloved character among fans of the film. His quirky personality, sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty make him a relatable and endearing character. While some viewers have criticized the character’s behavior, many see him as a harmless underdog who never gets the girl.
FAQs
Originally, the film’s ending had Andie and Duckie ending up together. However, test audiences did not respond well to the ending, so it was changed to have Andie end up with Blane.
Many actors, including Robert Downey Jr. and Anthony Michael Hall, auditioned for the role of Duckie before Jon Cryer was cast.
There have been rumors of a spin-off movie centered around Duckie’s character, but nothing has ever materialized.
Cryer was allowed to keep some of Duckie’s wardrobe.
Jon Cryer is a well-known actor who has appeared in many films and TV shows, including “Two and a Half Men” and “Hot Shots!”
Despite the controversy surrounding Duckie’s character, it’s clear that he has left a lasting impression on fans of “Pretty in Pink.” His quirky fashion sense, humor, and love for Andie make him a relatable character that many viewers root for. While he may not have ended up with the girl, Duckie remains a beloved underdog who stole the hearts of many viewers.
