On this day July 2, 1986, Under the Cherry Moon premiered in theaters as Prince’s highly anticipated follow up to Purple Rain. This time, the pop icon stepped behind the camera to direct as well as star, aiming for a bold and artistic shift in tone. Shot entirely in black and white, the film was set in the French Riviera and centered on a gigolo named Christopher Tracy who falls in love with a wealthy heiress.
Under the Cherry Moon had a completely different style from Purple Rain. It blended romance, drama, and light comedy while showcasing Prince’s flair for fashion, music, and unconventional storytelling. While it only earned 10.1 million dollars at the box office and was panned by critics at the time, it developed a cult following over the years thanks to Prince’s dedicated fan base and the film’s unique look and soundtrack.
The film featured music from the Parade album, including the hit single Kiss, which became one of Prince’s biggest songs of the decade.
80s insight: Under the Cherry Moon was a bold creative risk that reflected how fearless Prince was as an artist. Even when the mainstream didn’t embrace it, the film captured the style and spirit of 80s pop culture with confidence and flair.
Under the Cherry Moon had a completely different style from Purple Rain. It blended romance, drama, and light comedy while showcasing Prince’s flair for fashion, music, and unconventional storytelling. While it only earned 10.1 million dollars at the box office and was panned by critics at the time, it developed a cult following over the years thanks to Prince’s dedicated fan base and the film’s unique look and soundtrack.
The film featured music from the Parade album, including the hit single Kiss, which became one of Prince’s biggest songs of the decade.
80s insight: Under the Cherry Moon was a bold creative risk that reflected how fearless Prince was as an artist. Even when the mainstream didn’t embrace it, the film captured the style and spirit of 80s pop culture with confidence and flair.
