Imagine being on set for a movie destined to become a classic, only to find yourself navigating unexpected creative clashes. Michael J. Fox, reflecting on the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future, recently shared some behind-the-scenes insights about working with Crispin Glover, who played his on-screen father, George McFly. And it seems Glover's unique approach to the character ruffled some feathers.
In his new memoir, Future Boy, Fox recounts how Glover's interpretation of George McFly led to palpable tension on set. Fox, a four-time Golden Globe winner, delves into the challenges of working with an actor as unconventional as Glover. But here's where it gets controversial... Was Glover's dedication to his artistic vision a source of friction, or simply a testament to his commitment to the role?
Fox vividly describes Glover's refusal to conform to standard blocking and direction. "Nobody puts Crispin in a box. But that didn’t prevent the camera crew from literally building a box around him," Fox wrote, according to the New York Post. He explains that Glover had his own distinct ideas about how George McFly should move and behave.
To illustrate, Fox recalls a specific scene where Glover was supposed to stay within a designated area while approaching the camera. "As Crispin approached the camera, he was meant to stay in a lane between the clothesline and me. But Crispin had a different plan," Fox wrote. "My guess is that he saw George as a wanderer, a free spirit who traveled in random patterns — in this case, perpendicular to the camera." To manage this, the crew, in a rather unusual move, resorted to building a makeshift "corral" out of sandbags and C-stands to keep Glover within the shot's parameters. Imagine having to physically contain an actor to get a scene done!
And this is the part most people miss... Despite the challenges, Fox emphasizes his respect for Glover's dedication. He acknowledges Glover's undeniable talent and his unwavering commitment to his unique understanding of George McFly. "His talent was unquestionable, although his methods sometimes created friction," Fox noted. "Still, I respected how he remained true to George (as he understood and embodied him)." This begs the question: at what point does artistic freedom become disruptive to the collaborative process of filmmaking?
Interestingly, Glover did not reprise his role in either of the Back to the Future sequels. Fox mentions that he knew Glover before filming began, but emphasizes that there was truly “no way to prepare for Crispin.” He contrasted this with Christopher Lloyd, stating that even though Lloyd was unpredictable, Fox at least had a sense of what Lloyd was aiming for.
Ultimately, Michael J. Fox paints a fascinating picture of a complex and challenging, yet ultimately respectful, working relationship with Crispin Glover. Glover's unique approach to acting clearly created some on-set difficulties, but also contributed to the distinct character that fans remember so vividly. Was Glover's approach justified, even if it created friction? Did his commitment ultimately enhance the film, or was it a hindrance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
