Thu Oct 23 11:40:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Official John Hughes Documentary in the Works with Son’s Blessing, New Archive Material

Hollywood, CA – An authorized documentary about the life and career of iconic filmmaker John Hughes is in development, with exclusive access granted to a vast archive of never-before-seen photos and behind-the-scenes footage. The project is spearheaded by acclaimed documentary filmmakers Chris Smith (“Jim & Andy,” “Tiger King,” “100 Foot Wave”) and Jack Turner (“Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields,” “BS High”), in partnership with John Hughes III, the filmmaker’s son. Jack Whigham of Range Media Partners will also be producing.

Hughes, who passed away in 2009, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in American cinema. He is celebrated for writing and directing a string of iconic teen comedies and family films in the 1980s and 90s that shaped youth culture and popular music, including “Sixteen Candles,” “The Breakfast Club,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “Planes, Trains & Automobiles,” and “Uncle Buck.” He also penned classics like “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “Pretty in Pink,” and “Home Alone.”

The documentary promises to offer a definitive portrait of Hughes, drawing on the unique access granted to the filmmakers by the family estate. The archive is said to contain a wealth of personal and professional material, offering new insights into the creative process and personal life of the celebrated director.

Chris Smith brings extensive experience in documentary filmmaking to the project, with an impressive track record including the Emmy-nominated “Jim & Andy,” and “100 Foot Wave.” His first documentary American Movie won the Grand Jury prize at the 1999 Sundance Film Festival.

Jack Turner, an Emmy-winning producer, has earned acclaim for recent projects such as the Emmy-nominated “Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields,” “BS High,” and “Sneaker Wars: Adidas v Puma.”

John Hughes III, a co-founder of Blue Cuckoo Pictures, brings firsthand knowledge and personal connection to the subject. He most recently served as an executive producer on “Twin”, a feature-length documentary.

Further details, including the film’s title and release date, are expected to be announced in the coming months.

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