Trademark Characteristics in Hughes' Movies
A majority of Hughes' films were set in the North Shore suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area. In certain films, the setting is specifically identified as the fictional Shermer, Illinois, a nod to the original name of Northbrook, Shermerville. Another element that remained consistent through all of his movies was a strong emphasis on pop songs and music cues. He also frequently employed several filmic devices such as characters breaking the fourth wall; additional scenes under or after the closing credits; non-linear montages; and using a freeze-frame as the closing shot before the end credits.
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