On this day April 1 1988 Bright Lights Big City premiered in theaters. Directed by James Bridges the film starred Michael J Fox in a rare dramatic role as a young New Yorker spiraling into a world of nightlife and addiction while trying to keep his life and job from falling apart.
Based on the best selling novel by Jay McInerney the film featured a strong supporting cast including Kiefer Sutherland Phoebe Cates Dianne Wiest and Jason Robards. While the film had a sleek 80s aesthetic and explored heavy themes like grief substance abuse and identity it struggled to connect with audiences and critics.
Despite a $25 million budget it only earned $16.5 million at the box office but it has gained more attention over time as a snapshot of 80s excess and urban disillusionment.
80s insight: Michael J Fox took the role to break away from his sitcom and teen comedy image and show his dramatic range during the height of his fame.
Based on the best selling novel by Jay McInerney the film featured a strong supporting cast including Kiefer Sutherland Phoebe Cates Dianne Wiest and Jason Robards. While the film had a sleek 80s aesthetic and explored heavy themes like grief substance abuse and identity it struggled to connect with audiences and critics.
Despite a $25 million budget it only earned $16.5 million at the box office but it has gained more attention over time as a snapshot of 80s excess and urban disillusionment.
80s insight: Michael J Fox took the role to break away from his sitcom and teen comedy image and show his dramatic range during the height of his fame.
