In the classic 1984 film Sixteen Candles, the character who was getting married was Ginny Baker, the older sister of the protagonist, Samantha Baker.
The Wedding at the Heart of the Story
The movie's plot intricately weaves around Ginny Baker's wedding to her fiancé, Rudy, which inadvertently causes Samantha's sixteenth birthday to be overlooked by her family. While the wedding itself is a central event, it also serves as a backdrop for various comedic misunderstandings and romantic developments throughout the film.
Ginny Baker and Rudy's Nuptials
Ginny's wedding to Rudy takes place at a church, and her family is deeply engrossed in the preparations and celebration. This significant family event highlights the typical chaos and joy of a large family gathering, but it also underscores Samantha's feelings of being ignored on her special day.
The Miscommunication Around Samantha
A notable plot point related to the wedding involves a miscommunication concerning Samantha. At one point, a hungover character named Dong mistakenly conveys that Samantha is at the church getting married. This misunderstanding temporarily confuses Jake Ryan, a popular senior whom Samantha admires. However, Jake later arrives at the church and finds Samantha there after the wedding has concluded, making it clear that she was not the bride in question.
Key Characters and Their Roles in the Wedding Plot
The wedding plotline involves several key characters, each contributing to the film's narrative.
| Character | Role in Wedding Plot |
|---|---|
| Ginny Baker | The bride, Samantha's older sister. Her wedding is the central family event around which much of the film's initial plot revolves. |
| Rudy | The groom. His marriage to Ginny marks a significant milestone for the Baker family. |
| Samantha Baker | The film's protagonist, whose sixteenth birthday is overshadowed by her sister's wedding. She is also the subject of a miscommunication where it is mistakenly believed she is getting married. |
| Dong | A foreign exchange student staying with the Bakers. Due to a hangover, he miscommunicates to Jake Ryan that Samantha is at the church getting married, leading to temporary confusion. |
| Jake Ryan | Samantha's crush. He initially hears the mistaken report about Sam's supposed wedding but later finds her at the church after Ginny's wedding, clarifying the situation and inviting her back to his house. |
This wedding provides the setting for many of the film's comedic and romantic moments, ultimately leading to Samantha's memorable birthday celebration with Jake.
