The Filming Locations of The Breakfast Club: Debunking the Myths

The film The Breakfast Club, a classic coming-of-age story, has become synonymous with the values and experiences of the 1980s. Many viewers wonder where this iconic film was shot. While the fictional Shermer High School is a well-known reference in the movie, the real filming location is a different high school in Illinois.

What High School Was The Breakfast Club Filmed At?

Often, movies set in high schools have fictional names, and The Breakfast Club is no exception. The school in the film is called Shermer High. However, the real filming location is Maine North High School in Des Plaines, Illinois. This school, which has a rich history, had been closed since 1981 but was temporarily reopened for the movie's filming.

The Real School: Maine North High School

Filming at Maine North High School began on March 28, 1984, and continued through May. John Hughes, the acclaimed director of the film, used this location for both interior and exterior scenes. Maine North High School, located in Unincorporated Des Plaines, Illinois, is part of the Maine Township High School District 207. Despite being closed, the school's location offered the perfect setting for the movie's scenes.

The Library Dilemma

One of the most challenging aspects of filming at Maine North High School was the small library. To overcome this obstacle, the production team constructed an entire library set in the gym. This creative solution allowed for the filming of scenes that required a larger space, ensuring that the movie captured all the necessary shots without compromising on quality or authenticity.

Status of the School Building

Following the filming, the building remained closed and was eventually converted for other uses. Today, the former Maine North High School is utilized by the State of Illinois. The facility houses the Illinois State Police District Chicago, the Illinois Departments of Public Aid, Transportation, and even serves as a location where one can cash in winning lottery tickets. This dual-purpose repurposing reflects how locations frequently transition from one purpose to another, continuing to serve the community in unique ways.

Was The Breakfast Club Filmed in a Real High School?

Yes, The Breakfast Club was filmed at a real high school. The exterior shots of the fictional Shermer High School were actually filmed at Glenbrook North High School, while the interior scenes were filmed at Maine North High School in Des Plaines, Illinois. This combination of locations allowed for a more authentic and diverse representation of a high school experience.

Conclusion

The The Breakfast Club film is more than just a look at the high school experience. It is a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. The real filming locations, whether they were Maine North High School or Glenbrook North, played a significant role in bringing the movie to life. While the fictional name Shermer High has stuck in our memories, understanding the real locations provides a deeper appreciation for the movie's authenticity and the true story behind the classic coming-of-age tale.