<p>The movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off features heavily in my Common App essay. I get the impression that it's considered a classic movie and most people will know what it's about, but I've been out of the US for a long time now, and I don't really know whether the average admissions officer will have watched it. </p>
<p>I tried to make everything that was really important accessible for those who haven't watched it, but my essay reads like I assume the reader has watched the movie. The reader should still get my point and understand who I am even if they haven't seen the movie, but I'm afraid that they will be somewhat put off by a bunch of references they don't get. </p>
<p>Can I expect admissions officers and essay readers to know about this movie? Or should I go back and cut out parts that readers may not get?</p>
<p>I don’t think you should worry too much about it. If your essay still makes sense, I’d say youre good. Im kind of curious though how you incorporated it. Like are you comparing yourself to one of the characters or what?</p>
<p>I’ve never seen the movie before, so if you need an outsider’s perspective, I can give it a go. I’m a strong writer and I’ve already finished my own Common App essay, so you don’t have to worry about theft. </p>
<p>I think that the biggest thing you should avoid is just summary. If you explain more on what you have taken away from the movie or how it’s affected you personally, you shouldn’t need to worry about the reader understanding these pop culture references. For example, in comparing yourself to ‘Cameron’, obviously you can’t assume that the reader automatically knows what he’s like. You could give some background, but the best way to go about this is to explain his personality through the parallels you’re drawing between you and him (so it’s more focused on you).</p>