Reasons Behind Eric Stoltz’s Recasting as Marty McFly in Back To The Future

Back to the Future has firmly established itself as a timeless classic from the 1980s, with Michael J. Fox immortalized in his role as Marty McFly. This role became notably available after the original choice, Eric Stoltz, was dismissed from the project. As one of the standout films of an era rich with iconic cinema across multiple genres, Back to the Future shines brightly in the realms of science fiction and comedy. Directed by the talented Robert Zemeckis, the film follows the adventures of Marty McFly and his eccentric friend, Emmett “Doc” Brown, portrayed by Christopher Lloyd.

The central plot revolves around Doc, who invents a time machine using a modified DeLorean car powered by plutonium. This invention leads to catastrophic consequences when terrorists confront him, resulting in his untimely death. In a desperate bid to escape, Marty unwittingly travels back to the year 1955. Encountering his teenage parents puts his own existence at risk as he navigates the complexities of time travel. Despite initial challenges, Back to the Future received widespread acclaim, particularly for Fox’s captivating performance, a potentially different narrative had Stoltz remained in the role.

Eric Stoltz: Fired from Back to the Future After a Month

Eric Stoltz’s Brief Stint as Marty McFly

Eric Stoltz looking shocked as Marty McFly next to Doc Brown

Before Michael J. Fox took on the iconic role of Marty McFly, Back to the Future faced numerous hurdles during its pre-production phase. Initially, Fox was the producers’ first choice. However, due to his commitment to the sitcom Family Ties, his involvement was complicated. Steven Spielberg urged the show’s producer to allow Fox to review the script, but concerns about Fox’s absence harming the sitcom’s success resulted in setbacks. Eventually, after extensive consideration, Eric Stoltz was cast in the role.

Filming commenced on November 26, 1984, but just a month later, Zemeckis and the producers reviewed Stoltz’s footage. Despite their reluctance, they quickly recognized that Stoltz’s performance failed to align with the film’s vision. Zemeckis, known for his self-critical approach, felt compelled to rework several scenes and, fortunately, was given the green light by studio chief Sidney Sheinberg to rescind Stoltz’s role if necessary (source: Esquire).

Notably, Stoltz’s method acting style created a level of tension on set, prompting Spielberg to advise Zemeckis that replacing him was essential to avoid jeopardizing the film’s production. Following negotiations, Fox was brought on board without having seen the script. Unfortunately, Stoltz continued filming for a short while longer before officially being let go on January 10, 1985.

During his time on set, Stoltz filmed several sequences, including pivotal moments depicting Marty’s journey to 1955 and his struggle to return to the present. Following his departure, Stoltz was compensated for his work, but only a single scene featuring him was retained in the final cut, showcasing the moment Marty punches Biff in the face.

Eric Stoltz’s Interpretation of Marty McFly Did Not Fit

Zemeckis Had Specific Expectations

The disconnect between Eric Stoltz and the character of Marty McFly stemmed from his portrayal. Stoltz opted for a darker and more serious approach that contradicted Zemeckis’s vision of a lively and comedic character. He reportedly expressed doubts about his casting, indicating he wasn’t a comedian and questioning the direction in which the character should be taken. His physical appearance, which leaned towards a “bad boy”aesthetic, further exacerbated this conflict, as it did not resonate with the youthful charm intended for Marty McFly.

Upon transitioning into the role on January 15, 1985, Michael J. Fox’s dynamic presence dramatically shifted the film’s atmosphere. He infused the character with the clumsiness, charm, and humor that Zemeckis envisioned, revitalizing the production.

Other Potential Candidates for Marty McFly

Actors Who Almost Assumed the Role of Marty McFly

Prior to Eric Stoltz’s casting, a range of actors were considered for the role of Marty McFly. C. Thomas Howell, renowned for his portrayal of Ponyboy in The Outsiders, was initially a frontrunner. However, after viewing Stoltz in the 1985 film Mask, the studio executives opted for him. Various notable names, including John Cusack, Johnny Depp, Charlie Sheen, and Robert Downey Jr., were also in the running. Additionally, musician Corey Hart was approached but ultimately declined to audition. Although some candidates may not have been comedians, several possessed the potential to embody the energetic and charismatic essence that Zemeckis sought, making Michael J. Fox the ultimate choice for the iconic character.

Eric Stoltz’s Career After Back to the Future

Eric Stoltz’s Ongoing Acting Career

Robert Zemeckis reflected on the challenge of letting Eric Stoltz go from Back to the Future as one of the most difficult moments of his career, expressing regret over the circumstance (source: Blockbuster, via Esquire). However, Stoltz’s exit did not hinder his professional journey. Having started his career in television in the late 1970s, he made a notable feature film debut in the 1982 comedy Fast Times at Ridgemont High. His significant breakthrough occurred in 1985 when he starred as Rocky Dennis in Mask.

Post-Back to the Future, Stoltz featured in the romantic drama Say Anything…, and took on roles in films like The Fly II and the acclaimed Pulp Fiction, where he played Lance. Throughout the 1990s, he appeared in notable films such as Little Women, Jerry Maguire, and Anaconda.

On television, his credits include significant roles in Mad About You, Chicago Hope, and Caprica. Beyond acting, Stoltz also stepped into the director’s role for projects like Confessions of a Teenage Jesus Jerk and episodes of popular series such as Grey’s Anatomy and Glee.

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Sources: We Don’t Need Roads: The Making Of The Back To The Future Trilogy, Esquire.

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