“The Breakfast Club,” that iconic 1985 film capturing the angst and unexpected bonds of teenage detention, wasn’t filmed at a real “Shermer High School.” Instead, the primary filming location was actually Maine North High School in Des Plaines, Illinois, which closed its doors in 1981. This now-defunct school became the backdrop for the unforgettable Saturday detention that changed the lives of five unlikely friends.
Maine North High: The Heart of Shermer
While the film is famously set in the fictional Shermer, Illinois, the tangible reality of Maine North High gave the movie its authentic, lived-in feel. The school’s architecture, interior design, and overall atmosphere contributed significantly to the film’s success, making it a cornerstone of teen movie history. The producers meticulously transformed the school to fit the envisioned aesthetic of Shermer High, leaving an indelible mark on the location’s legacy.
Key Filming Locations Inside Maine North
The library, the scene of so much introspective contemplation and awkward interaction, was primarily filmed within Maine North’s actual library. Similarly, the gymnasium, where Bender’s defiant spirit clashed with authority, also utilized the school’s physical space. Although some scenes were shot on soundstages, the core essence of Shermer High was undoubtedly rooted in Maine North’s walls. The transformation was so convincing that many viewers, even those familiar with the area, believed it to be a real, active high school.
Beyond Maine North: Other Filming Locations
Although Maine North High was the principal filming location, it wasn’t the only one. Other locations in the Chicago area played a role in creating the cinematic world of “The Breakfast Club.”
The Athletic Field and Exterior Shots
Exterior shots of the school, including the iconic scene of the students walking towards the building at the beginning of the film, were taken at Maine East High School in Park Ridge, Illinois. This distinction is important as it highlights the composite nature of the Shermer High setting. The use of multiple locations added depth and realism to the film, creating a believable high school environment.
Establishing Shots: A Glimpse of Shermer
Certain establishing shots, showing the fictional town of Shermer, may have been filmed in various suburban locations around Chicago. These fleeting glimpses contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere, grounding the story in a recognizable, relatable American setting. The careful selection of these locations further reinforced the illusion of a real town and high school.
Legacy and Preservation
The closure of Maine North High in 1981 might have relegated it to historical obscurity if not for “The Breakfast Club.” The film immortalized the school, turning it into a pop culture landmark.
The Fate of Maine North High
Sadly, Maine North High was demolished in 1984, just before the film’s release. A business park now occupies the site. Despite its physical absence, the memory of Maine North endures through the film, ensuring its place in cinematic history. The demolition highlights the fleeting nature of physical locations and the enduring power of film to preserve them in memory.
Remembering Maine North Through Film
“The Breakfast Club” continues to introduce new generations to Maine North High, even in its absence. The film serves as a visual archive, preserving the school’s architecture and atmosphere for posterity. This lasting legacy underscores the transformative power of film and its ability to transcend time and space.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into “The Breakfast Club” Filming Locations
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations of “The Breakfast Club,” further clarifying the details and addressing common misconceptions.
FAQ 1: Was “The Breakfast Club” filmed at John Hughes’ actual high school?
No, “The Breakfast Club” was not filmed at John Hughes’ actual high school. Hughes attended Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook, Illinois. While some inspiration for the film may have been drawn from his experiences there, it wasn’t the filming location.
FAQ 2: What other movies were filmed at Maine North High School?
Besides “The Breakfast Club,” Maine North High School was also used as a filming location for “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986). Ironically, it served as the Glenbrook North High School, the actual high school John Hughes attended.
FAQ 3: Did any of the actors attend Maine North High School?
It’s unlikely that any of the main actors attended Maine North High School. The school closed in 1981, and the actors were already well on their way to their acting careers when the film was made in 1984.
FAQ 4: Where can I find more information about Maine North High School?
Information about Maine North High School can be found through local historical societies, online forums dedicated to local history, and by searching for archived newspaper articles from the period when the school was open.
FAQ 5: Why was Maine North High School chosen as the filming location?
Maine North High School was chosen for its availability and architectural suitability. Being recently closed, it offered a relatively untouched and adaptable space for filming. The school’s design also aligned with the aesthetic Hughes envisioned for Shermer High.
FAQ 6: Is there a Shermer, Illinois in real life?
No, Shermer, Illinois is a fictional town created by John Hughes and used in several of his films, including “Sixteen Candles” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” It represents a generic suburban setting.
FAQ 7: Are there any tours of “The Breakfast Club” filming locations?
Due to the demolition of Maine North High School, formal tours of the primary filming location are impossible. However, fans can visit Maine East High School for a glimpse of the exterior and research the surrounding area for potential filming spots.
FAQ 8: Did John Hughes live near Maine North High School?
John Hughes lived in the northern suburbs of Chicago, so he was likely familiar with the area surrounding Maine North High School. This familiarity may have influenced his decision to use it as a filming location.
FAQ 9: How did the filmmakers transform Maine North High into Shermer High?
The filmmakers used various techniques to transform Maine North High, including re-decorating classrooms, adding props, and altering the school’s signage. These changes created the illusion of a distinct high school environment.
FAQ 10: What makes “The Breakfast Club” so timeless?
“The Breakfast Club’s” timelessness stems from its universal themes of teenage angst, identity, and the search for belonging. The film’s relatable characters and honest portrayal of high school life continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
FAQ 11: Can I see pictures of Maine North High School before it was demolished?
Yes, pictures of Maine North High School before its demolition can be found through online archives, yearbooks, and local historical societies. These images provide a visual record of the school’s appearance.
FAQ 12: Has the site of Maine North High been commemorated in any way?
While there isn’t a formal memorial, the site of Maine North High School is often remembered by fans of “The Breakfast Club.” The film itself serves as the most prominent commemoration, ensuring the school’s place in pop culture history. The film has become a cultural touchstone, acting as an unofficial memorial for the school.