Opening of The Breakfast Club

Because the Breakfast Club is about five main characters from different cliques and backgrounds, it would take a while to give them each a scene to establish who they are. So the arrival and mode of transport helps the viewers to establish the characters.

The Brain: 

• Travels by a normal, family car
• With his mum and little sister in front seat - close with family
• Mum expects him to 'study' though you can't in detention - pressure from family

The Basket Case:

• Travels by really nice, wealthy car
• Probably with her parent(s), though they drive off without saying bye - not close with family/don't care about her
• Travels in the back seat - distant relationship with parents

The Criminal:

• Travels by foot - alone
• Almost gets run over by car - 'doesn't care' attitude

The Athlete:

• Travels in a classic American pick-up truck - typical transport of a 'soccer mom/dad'
• Seats in front seat with parent - there's still family connection (unlike The Basket Case), but still distant
• Athlete doesn't face his dad often during conversation - difficult relationship

The Princess:

• Travels in an expensive BMW - comes from a wealthy family
• Dad drops her off with a shopping bag - spoilt