Fandango (1985 film): Difference between revisions
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{{About|the American film||Fandango (disambiguation)}} |
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{{short description|1985 comedy film by Kevin Reynolds}} |
{{short description|1985 comedy film by Kevin Reynolds}} |
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{{use mdy dates|date=February 2023}} |
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{{Infobox film |
{{Infobox film |
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| name = Fandango |
| name = Fandango |
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| country = United States |
| country = United States |
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| language = English |
| language = English |
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| budget = $7 million<ref> |
| budget = $7 million<ref name=afi>{{Cite web|url=https://catalog.afi.com/Film/57679-FANDANGO|title=Fandango (1985)|website=[[AFI Catalog of Feature Films|AFI Catalog]]|access-date=15 November 2021}}</ref> |
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| gross = $91,666<ref name="Mojo"> |
| gross = $91,666<ref name="Mojo">{{cite web|url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=fandango.htm |title=Fandango |website=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> |
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}} |
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'''''Fandango''''' is a 1985 American [[comedy film]] directed by [[Kevin Reynolds (director)|Kevin Reynolds]]. It was originally a student film titled ''Proof'' made by Reynolds while he was attending [[University of Southern California |
'''''Fandango''''' is a 1985 American [[comedy film]] directed by [[Kevin Reynolds (director)|Kevin Reynolds]]. It was originally a student film titled ''Proof'' made by Reynolds while he was attending [[University of Southern California]] film school. It was a parody of [[Fraternities and sororities|Greek life]] at his alma mater, [[Baylor University]]. Due to his father's presidency at Baylor, though, he did not wish to portray the Baptist institution in an unfavorable light and gave it the alternative location as the [[University of Texas]]. The film is now a [[cult classic]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.tampabay.com/30-years-later-which-movie-would-you-watch-fandango-or-falcon-and-the/2215146/ |title=30 years later, which movie would you watch: Fandango or Falcon and the Snowman? |newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]] |date=January 26, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.popmatters.com/fandango-the-sublime-marriage-of-music-and-image-2495422684.html |title=The Sublime Marriage of Music and Image in 'Fandango' |last=Caldwell |first=Rob |work=[[PopMatters]] |date=November 3, 2016}}</ref> |
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[[Steven Spielberg]] saw the film and helped fund a feature-length comedy/drama about five college students from [[Texas]] in 1971 who go on a "last road trip" together, celebrating the "privilege of youth" as they face [[graduation]], [[marriage]] and [[Conscription|the draft]] for the [[Vietnam War]]. |
[[Steven Spielberg]] saw the film and helped fund a feature-length comedy/drama about five college students from [[Texas]] in 1971, who go on a "last road trip" together, celebrating the "privilege of youth" as they face [[graduation]], [[marriage]], and [[Conscription|the draft]] for the [[Vietnam War]].{{sfn|McBride|2011|p=603}} |
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''Fandango'' stars [[Kevin Costner]] (in his first starring role, although an earlier film where he had been the lead actor, ''[[The Gunrunner (film)|The Gunrunner]]'' had actually wrapped in 1983 but was not released until 1989), [[Judd Nelson]] and [[Sam Robards]].<ref name="Rejects"/>{{#tag:ref|Costner had actually auditioned for a role in ''Proof'', the original student film, but Reynolds had rejected him.<ref name="Rejects">Abaius |
''Fandango'' stars [[Kevin Costner]] (in his first starring role, although an earlier film where he had been the lead actor, ''[[The Gunrunner (film)|The Gunrunner]]'' had actually wrapped in 1983, but was not released until 1989), [[Judd Nelson]], and [[Sam Robards]].<ref name="Rejects"/>{{#tag:ref|Costner had actually auditioned for a role in ''Proof'', the original student film, but Reynolds had rejected him.<ref name="Rejects">{{cite web|last=Abaius |first=Cole |url=https://filmschoolrejects.com/interview-kevin-reynolds-looks-back-at-fandango/ |title=Interview: Kevin Reynolds Looks Back at 'Fandango' |website=[[Film School Rejects]] |date=May 12, 2009 |access-date=February 10, 2012 |url-status=live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090514235525/https://filmschoolrejects.com/features/interview-kevin-reynolds-looks-back-at-fandango.php |archive-date=May 14, 2009}}</ref>|group=Note}} The soundtrack features an original score by [[Alan Silvestri]] and music by [[Pat Metheny]] and [[Lyle Mays]], among others. |
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The film was released by [[Warner Bros.]] and [[Amblin Entertainment]] on January 25, 1985, and a [[DVD]] of the film was released on February 15, 2005. ''Fandango'' marked not only the directorial debut of Reynolds, but also the feature-film debut of [[Suzy Amis]], previously known primarily for her work in modeling.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/16739/fandango#notes |title=Fandango: Miscellaneous Notes |website=[[Turner Classic Movies|Turner Classic Movie Database]] |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> |
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==Plot== |
==Plot== |
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In 1971, at a fraternity house on the |
In 1971, at a fraternity house on the University of Texas campus in [[Austin, Texas|Austin]], a graduation party is going on. Gardner Barnes is a member of a [[clique]] called the Groovers, whose other members include Kenneth Waggener, engaged to be married, and [[ROTC]] geek Phil Hicks. Phil's parents arrive at the fraternity house in time to see Groover Lester pass out. They also meet the [[seminary]] student Dorman. |
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Kenneth interrupts the festivities by announcing his [[Conscription in the United States|student deferment]] has expired and he is now to be drafted into the |
Kenneth interrupts the festivities by announcing his [[Conscription in the United States|student deferment]] has expired and he is now to be drafted into the Vietnam War. Gardner's own notice came weeks before. Kenneth has decided to call off his engagement to his girlfriend on account of being drafted. The Groovers decide to celebrate their last days before the draft by going on a road trip, intending to visit a notorious [[Roadhouse (facility)|roadhouse]], then "dig up" someone - or something - named Dom near the [[Rio Grande]]. They drive all night before making a rest stop. Some, including Phil, resist continuing, but Gardner presses them on. |
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Phil's car runs out of gas and the Groovers must decide whether to walk to the nearest town or hitch. Phil is adamant about not leaving his car behind, when someone gets the idea to lasso a train passing on the railroad track parallel to the road. Dorman |
Phil's car runs out of gas and the Groovers must decide whether to walk to the nearest town or hitch. Phil is adamant about not leaving his car behind, when someone gets the idea to lasso a train passing on the railroad track parallel to the road. Dorman attaches the front bumper with fence cable to the back of the train, but the car's front end is pulled off, leaving the car in place. The Groovers push the car to a garage in the nearest town and eat at a [[Sonic Drive-In]]. They meet up with townie girls and eventually end up playing in a cemetery operated by one of the girls' undertaker father, where they come upon a fallen Vietnam War soldier's tombstone. They sleep at the former movie set of ''[[Giant (1956 film)|Giant]]''. |
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The next morning, with the car repaired with a front end from a different make and model, the Groovers continue. Phil wants to go back, prompting Kenneth to shout angrily at him. Gardner confesses they only let Phil hang with them because they felt sorry for him. Humiliated, Phil retorts that he will take on any challenge. The group sees a sign for a [[parachute]] school giving jumping lessons. Gardner cons the |
The next morning, with the car repaired with a front end from a different make and model, the Groovers continue. Phil wants to go back, prompting Kenneth to shout angrily at him. Gardner confesses that they only let Phil hang with them because they felt sorry for him. Humiliated, Phil retorts that he will take on any challenge. The group sees a sign for a [[parachute]] school giving jumping lessons. Gardner cons the instructor, Truman Sparks, into giving Phil a free lesson. Phil is terrified, but goes up into Truman's aircraft. However, he is carrying Truman's dirty laundry instead of a parachute. The boys try desperately to warn him from the ground without success. Phil, however, manages to open an emergency chute with much prompting from Truman by [[walkie-talkie]]. The Groovers get a picture for their efforts. |
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After discovering the charred, abandoned remains of the roadhouse, the Groovers press onward. |
After discovering the charred, abandoned remains of the roadhouse, the Groovers press onward. They eventually reach a bluff overlooking the Rio Grande and dig up Dom – which turns out to be a magnum of [[Dom Pérignon (wine)|Dom Pérignon]] champagne. Each takes a drink before Gardner toasts to "freedom and youth." Kenneth starts having second thoughts about calling off the engagement. Pondering on the nature of love, Gardner decides to make things right. He calls Kenneth's girlfriend, gets her to reaccept the engagement, and arranges for Truman Sparks to fly her from [[Dallas]] to the border town and back. When they arrive, it is revealed that Kenneth's girlfriend is Debbie, Gardner's ex. Through some trickery, reminiscent of [[stone soup]], he sets up a wedding for Kenneth and Debbie, as Lester regains consciousness. After the ceremony, Gardner and Debbie share one last dance, a fandango. As they finish, Gardner leans in to kiss Debbie. But she shakes her head, kisses him on the cheek, and walks away. |
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Phil then gives Kenneth and Debbie his car as a wedding present. Lester goes to hitch a ride "anywhere", and Phil and Dorman shake hands before parting ways. Dorman says to his friend, "Have a great life." Perched atop a cliff overlooking the town and watching the wedding reception, Gardner lifts a beer in salute to his friends.{{#tag:ref|The action of saluting his friends, leaves the audience to wonder if Gardner has left without saying goodbye to travel on to Mexico, thus avoiding the draft; or has he left his friends to avoid the pain of their departure and the last "Groover adventure."|group=Note}} |
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==Cast== |
==Cast== |
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* [[Sam Robards]] as Kenneth Waggener |
* [[Sam Robards]] as Kenneth Waggener |
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* [[Chuck Bush]] as Dorman |
* [[Chuck Bush]] as Dorman |
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* [[E. G. Daily]] as Judy |
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* Brian Cesak as Lester Griffin |
* Brian Cesak as Lester Griffin |
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* [[Marvin J. McIntyre |
* [[E. G. Daily]] as Judy |
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* Marvin J. McIntyre as Truman Sparks |
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* [[Suzy Amis]] as Debbie |
* [[Suzy Amis]] as Debbie |
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* [[Glenne Headly]] as Trelis |
* [[Glenne Headly]] as Trelis |
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* Stanley Grover as Phil's Dad |
* Stanley Grover as Phil's Dad |
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* Jane A. Johnston as Phil's Mom |
* Jane A. Johnston as Phil's Mom |
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* [[Marco Perella]] as Jester |
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* [[Pepe Serna]] as Gas Station Mechanic |
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{{div col end}} |
{{div col end}} |
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==Production== |
==Production== |
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<!-- Commented out because image was deleted: [[File:Cadillac on train tracks.jpg|thumb|right|The Groovers tying their Cadillac to a passing train (screen shot from the film trailer) is a pivotal scene that leaves the characters temporarily stranded after their plan to "hitch a ride" on a passing train fails miserably.]] --> |
<!-- Commented out because image was deleted: [[File:Cadillac on train tracks.jpg|thumb|right|The Groovers tying their Cadillac to a passing train (screen shot from the film trailer) is a pivotal scene that leaves the characters temporarily stranded after their plan to "hitch a ride" on a passing train fails miserably.]] --> |
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Principal photography began in the spring of 1983 at a number of locations, primarily in Texas, including [[Alpine, Texas|Alpine]], [[Austin, Texas|Austin]], [[El Paso, Texas|El Paso]], [[Fort Davis, Texas|Fort Davis]], [[Lajitas, Texas|Lajitas]], [[Marathon, Texas|Marathon]], [[Marfa, Texas|Marfa]], [[Monahans, Texas|Monahans]], [[Pyote, Texas |
Principal photography began in the spring of 1983 at a number of locations, primarily in Texas, including [[Alpine, Texas|Alpine]], [[Austin, Texas|Austin]], [[El Paso, Texas|El Paso]], [[Fort Davis, Texas|Fort Davis]], [[Lajitas, Texas|Lajitas]], [[Marathon, Texas|Marathon]], [[Marfa, Texas|Marfa]], [[Monahans, Texas|Monahans]], [[Pyote, Texas|Pyote]], [[Pecos, Texas|Pecos]], and [[San Elizario, Texas|San Elizario]]. [[Big Bend Ranch State Park]] in Texas (where Dom was located) and [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]], were also prominent in the film.<ref name="Locations">{{cite web|url=http://www.ultimatefandango.com/info/locations.htm |title=Fandango Movie Locations As They Appear Today |website=ultimatefandango.com |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> |
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The skydiving sequence in ''Fandango'' is shot-for-shot taken from Kevin Reynolds's |
The skydiving sequence in ''Fandango'' is shot-for-shot taken from Kevin Reynolds's University of Southern California thesis film, ''Proof'', from 1980. Spielberg had seen a copy of ''Proof'' and offered to produce the project, which became ''Fandango'', through his company, Amblin Entertainment.<ref name="Rejects"/>{{#tag:ref|''Proof'' can be seen as part of ''Reel Talent: First Films by Legendary Directors'', released in August 2007.<ref name="Reel Talent">{{cite web|last=Jones |first=Preston |url=http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/29777/reel-talent-first-films-by-legendary-directors/ |title=Reel Talent: First Films by Legendary Directors |website=DVD Talk |date=August 21, 2007 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref>|group=Note}}<ref name= "NYT">{{cite web|url=http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/16736/Fandango/overview?scp=2&sq=Fandango%20review&st=cse |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516022516/http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/16736/Fandango/overview?scp=2&sq=Fandango%20review&st=cse |archive-date=May 16, 2013 |title=Fandango (1985) |newspaper=The New York Times}}</ref> |
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The supposed backdrop of downtown Dallas where Truman Sparks flies to is actually Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1984.{{#tag:ref|Marvin J. McIntyre, aka Truman Sparks, made his first skydive at Blue Sky Ranch in Gardiner, New York in September 2007. McIntyre played the Parachute Club |
The supposed backdrop of downtown Dallas where Truman Sparks flies to is actually Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1984.{{#tag:ref|Marvin J. McIntyre, aka Truman Sparks, made his first skydive at Blue Sky Ranch in Gardiner, New York, in September 2007. McIntyre played the Parachute Club chief instructor (as "Head Jumpin' Bean" in ''Proof'').<ref name="Reel Talent"/>|group=Note}} The aerial sequence was filmed with the assistance of the [[Commemorative Air Force]] (then known as the Confederate Air Force), which has its main headquarters in Texas. The screen credits note: "Special thanks to the Confederate Air Force for their assistance in making this motion picture."<ref name=afi/> |
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== Release == |
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Warner Bros. delayed the release of the film reportedly because the then-unknown cast made the movie "unreleasable".<ref name="afi" /> After viewing a completed cut of the film, Reynolds also noted script problems, and in March 1984, he was allowed a four-day reshoot.<ref name="afi" /> |
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⚫ | In her review of ''Fandango'' for ''[[The New York Times]]'', [[Janet Maslin]] praised Kevin Reynolds' "way with the sight gags and off-the-wall humor that make this a notable debut. And he brings a good deal of feeling to the moments in which the film's twin specters – Vietnam and maturity – intrude upon the frantic festivities."<ref name= "maslin">Maslin |
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The film was finally released by Warner Bros. in a [[Limited theatrical release|limited release]] in New York City and Los Angeles on January 25, 1985.<ref name="afi" /> It earned a reported a $50,437 gross from 27 theaters,<ref name="afi" /> and ultimately grossed less than US$100,000.<ref name="Mojo" /> |
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[[Leonard Maltin]] called ''Fandango'' "fresh and likeable, if uneven."<ref>Maltin 2009, p. 437.</ref> [[Quentin Tarantino]] was quoted in ''Empire'' as follows: "''Fandango'' is one of the best directorial debuts in the history of cinema. I saw ''Fandango'' five times at the movie theater and it only played for a fucking week, all right."<ref>Morley, Chris. [http://weston-ochse.blogspot.com/2011/10/exclusive-interview-with-dark-regions.html "Exclusive Interview with Dark Regions Press."] ''Weston Ochse,'' October 4, 2011. Retrieved: February 10, 2012.</ref> |
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⚫ | Spielberg was said to be disappointed with the finished film, though Amblin Entertainment is still credited as the production company.{{sfn|Keith|1991|p=70}} Spielberg admitted that the film "wasn't really released," but wouldn't say more than that. Asked to comment on Spielberg's hesitance to release the film, director Kevin Reynolds' agent simply responded: "He's tired of talking about Steven Spielberg, and he's busy."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Blum |first=David |date=1986-03-24 |title=Steven Spielberg and the Dread Hollywood Backlash |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=J-cCAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA62 |pages=62–63 |magazine=[[New York (magazine)|New York]]}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Modern reappraisals have focused on the storytelling and character development |
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==Reception== |
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⚫ | In her review of ''Fandango'' for ''[[The New York Times]]'', [[Janet Maslin]] praised Kevin Reynolds' "way with the sight gags and off-the-wall humor that make this a notable debut. And he brings a good deal of feeling to the moments in which the film's twin specters – Vietnam and maturity – intrude upon the frantic festivities."<ref name= "maslin">{{cite news|last=Maslin |first=Janet |author-link=Janet Maslin |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1985/01/25/movies/screen-fandango-coming-of-age-in-1971.html |title=Screen: 'Fandango,' Coming of age in 1971 |newspaper=[[The New York Times]] |date=January 25, 1985|access-date=February 9, 2012}}</ref> ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' also praised the direction: "Reynolds shows an uncanny confidence with the camera, a sureness which is backed up by a powerful visual sensitivity and an ear for language, especially the vernacular of Texas, where the film is set."<ref name="fraser">{{cite news|last=Fraser |first=Matthew |title=Not just another teen comedy |newspaper=[[The Globe and Mail]] |date=March 12, 1985}}</ref> |
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[[Leonard Maltin]] called ''Fandango'' "fresh and likeable, if uneven."{{sfn|Maltin|2009|p=437}} [[Quentin Tarantino]] reportedly described ''Fandango'' as "one of the best directorial debuts" in the history of cinema,<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.houstonpress.com/arts/do-over-cinema-talks-the-kevin-costner-movie-no-one-does-10877037 |title=Do-Over Cinema: ''Fandango'' Celebrates A Series of Foolish Acts|last=Vonder Haar |first=Pete |newspaper=[[Houston Press]] |date=September 21, 2018 |access-date=February 14, 2023}}</ref> and is quoted as saying, "I saw ''Fandango'' five times at the movie theatre and it only played for a fucking week, all right?"<ref>{{cite book |last1=Tarantino |first1=Quentin |author1-link=Quentin Tarantino |title=Quentin Tarantino: Interviews |year=1998 |publisher=University Press of Mississippi |isbn=978-1578060511 |page=134 |edition=1st |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c5SdiFJmswcC&pg=PA134 |access-date=14 February 2023}}</ref> |
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Although Spielberg was disappointed with the finished film and did not have his name on the product, Amblin Entertainment is still credited.<ref>Keith 1991, p. 70.</ref> ''Fandango'' did not receive a widespread release, grossing less than US$100,000.<ref name="Mojo"/> However, through television and video, ''Fandango'' grew in popularity and, in July 2010, fans held a 25th anniversary celebration at the filming locations.<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/pages/ULTIMATE-FANDANGO-2010/279443685747 "Ultimate Fandango 2013."] ''facebook.com.'' Retrieved: February 9, 2012.</ref> |
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== Legacy == |
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⚫ | Modern reappraisals have focused on the storytelling and character development. Reviewer Bryan Pope critiqued the DVD version as, "Breezy and confident, and with a wing dinger of a soundtrack, ''Fandango'' is the definition of a sleeper. Before the final credits roll, its characters will have downed a few beers, faced fears, forged new friendships, tested old ones, and searched with some success for the answers to life's important questions. And, yes, one of them will even have danced the fandango under the Texas sky."<ref name="Verdict">{{cite web|last=Pape |first=Brian |url=http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/fandango.php |title=Review: Fandango |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120221232306/http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/fandango.php |archive-date=2012-02-21 |access-date=February 10, 2012 |website=DVD Verdict}}</ref> |
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''Fandango'' grew in popularity through television and home video, and in July 2010, fans held a 25th-anniversary celebration at the filming locations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.facebook.com/pages/ULTIMATE-FANDANGO-2010/279443685747 |title=Ultimate Fandango 2013 |via=[[Facebook]] |access-date=February 9, 2012}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Reynolds and Costner later worked together on two more films, ''[[Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves]]'' (1991) and ''[[Waterworld]]'' (1995).{{#tag:ref|Their collaboration in ''Waterworld'' actually resulted in the two parting ways over creative and personal differences.<ref>{{cite web|last=Campbell |first=Christopher |url=http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2010/02/26/kevin-costner-is-learning-italian-with-waterworld-director-kevin-reynolds/ |title=Kevin Costner is 'Learning Italian' with 'Waterworld' director Kevin Reynolds |website=[[MTV]]|date=February 26, 2010 |access-date=February 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312195905/http://www.mtv.com/news/2435691/kevin-costner-is-learning-italian-with-waterworld-director-kevin-reynolds/ |archive-date=March 12, 2017}}</ref>|group=Note}} Reynolds was Costner's uncredited second-unit director and set advisor for the Western epic and Costner directorial debut ''[[Dances with Wolves]]'' (1990).<ref>{{cite news|title=Kevin Reynolds Tells Which Kevin Really Directed 'Dances With Wolves' |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-03-31-ca-2183-story.html|newspaper=Los Angeles Times |date=March 31, 1991 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> Reynolds and Costner collaborated once again on the History Channel mini-series ''[[Hatfields & McCoys (TV miniseries)|Hatfields & McCoys]]'' (2012). |
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{{Reflist|group=Note}} |
{{Reflist|group=Note}} |
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'''Citations''' |
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{{Reflist|30em}} |
{{Reflist|30em}} |
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'''Bibliography''' |
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==Further reading== |
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{{Refbegin}} |
{{Refbegin}} |
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* Keith |
* {{cite book|last=Keith |first=Todd |title=Kevin Costner: the Unauthorized Biography |location=London |publisher=Icon Books |year=1991 |isbn=978-1-870049-34-4}} |
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* Maltin |
* {{cite book|last=Maltin |first=Leonard |author-link=Leonard Maltin |title=Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide 2009 |location=New York |publisher=New American Library |year=2009 |edition=1st |isbn=978-0-451-22468-2}} |
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* McBride |
* {{cite book|last=McBride |first=Joseph |title=Steven Spielberg: A Biography |location=Jackson, Mississippi |publisher=University Press of Mississippi |year=2011 |isbn=978-1-60473-836-0}} |
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{{Refend}} |
{{Refend}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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* {{IMDb title|0089126|Fandango}} |
* {{IMDb title|0089126|Fandango}} |
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* {{ |
* {{TCMDb title|16739|Fandango}} |
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* {{ |
* {{AllMovie title|16736|Fandango}} |
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* {{rotten-tomatoes|1007073-fandango|Fandango}} |
* {{rotten-tomatoes|1007073-fandango|Fandango}} |
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* {{mojo title|fandango|Fandango}} |
* {{mojo title|fandango|Fandango}} |
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*[https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/fandango-1985/id889654491?ign-mpt=uo%3D4 Fandango] at [[Apple TV]] |
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{{Kevin Reynolds}} |
{{Kevin Reynolds}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Fandango}} |
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[[Category:1985 films]] |
[[Category:1985 films]] |
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[[Category:American aviation films]] |
[[Category:American aviation films]] |
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[[Category:1985 comedy films]] |
[[Category:1985 comedy films]] |
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[[Category:Amblin Entertainment films]] |
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[[Category:Films set in 1971]] |
[[Category:Films set in 1971]] |
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[[Category:Films shot in Texas]] |
[[Category:Films shot in Texas]] |
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[[Category:American |
[[Category:American road comedy-drama films]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:American buddy comedy-drama films]] |
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[[Category:1980s road comedy-drama films]] |
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[[Category:1980s buddy comedy-drama films]] |
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[[Category:Warner Bros. films]] |
[[Category:Warner Bros. films]] |
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[[Category:Films directed by Kevin Reynolds]] |
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[[Category:1985 directorial debut films]] |
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[[Category:Films produced by Tim Zinnemann]] |
[[Category:Films produced by Tim Zinnemann]] |
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[[Category:English-language comedy-drama films]] |
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[[Category:English-language buddy comedy-drama films]] |
Latest revision as of 12:05, 1 December 2024
Fandango | |
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Directed by | Kevin Reynolds |
Written by | Kevin Reynolds |
Produced by | Tim Zinnemann |
Starring |
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Cinematography | Thomas Del Ruth |
Edited by | Arthur Schmidt Stephen Semel |
Music by | Alan Silvestri |
Production company | |
Distributed by | Warner Bros. |
Release date |
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Running time | 91 minutes |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Budget | $7 million[1] |
Box office | $91,666[2] |
Fandango is a 1985 American comedy film directed by Kevin Reynolds. It was originally a student film titled Proof made by Reynolds while he was attending University of Southern California film school. It was a parody of Greek life at his alma mater, Baylor University. Due to his father's presidency at Baylor, though, he did not wish to portray the Baptist institution in an unfavorable light and gave it the alternative location as the University of Texas. The film is now a cult classic.[3][4]
Steven Spielberg saw the film and helped fund a feature-length comedy/drama about five college students from Texas in 1971, who go on a "last road trip" together, celebrating the "privilege of youth" as they face graduation, marriage, and the draft for the Vietnam War.[5]
Fandango stars Kevin Costner (in his first starring role, although an earlier film where he had been the lead actor, The Gunrunner had actually wrapped in 1983, but was not released until 1989), Judd Nelson, and Sam Robards.[6][Note 1] The soundtrack features an original score by Alan Silvestri and music by Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays, among others.
The film was released by Warner Bros. and Amblin Entertainment on January 25, 1985, and a DVD of the film was released on February 15, 2005. Fandango marked not only the directorial debut of Reynolds, but also the feature-film debut of Suzy Amis, previously known primarily for her work in modeling.[7]
Plot
[edit]In 1971, at a fraternity house on the University of Texas campus in Austin, a graduation party is going on. Gardner Barnes is a member of a clique called the Groovers, whose other members include Kenneth Waggener, engaged to be married, and ROTC geek Phil Hicks. Phil's parents arrive at the fraternity house in time to see Groover Lester pass out. They also meet the seminary student Dorman.
Kenneth interrupts the festivities by announcing his student deferment has expired and he is now to be drafted into the Vietnam War. Gardner's own notice came weeks before. Kenneth has decided to call off his engagement to his girlfriend on account of being drafted. The Groovers decide to celebrate their last days before the draft by going on a road trip, intending to visit a notorious roadhouse, then "dig up" someone - or something - named Dom near the Rio Grande. They drive all night before making a rest stop. Some, including Phil, resist continuing, but Gardner presses them on.
Phil's car runs out of gas and the Groovers must decide whether to walk to the nearest town or hitch. Phil is adamant about not leaving his car behind, when someone gets the idea to lasso a train passing on the railroad track parallel to the road. Dorman attaches the front bumper with fence cable to the back of the train, but the car's front end is pulled off, leaving the car in place. The Groovers push the car to a garage in the nearest town and eat at a Sonic Drive-In. They meet up with townie girls and eventually end up playing in a cemetery operated by one of the girls' undertaker father, where they come upon a fallen Vietnam War soldier's tombstone. They sleep at the former movie set of Giant.
The next morning, with the car repaired with a front end from a different make and model, the Groovers continue. Phil wants to go back, prompting Kenneth to shout angrily at him. Gardner confesses that they only let Phil hang with them because they felt sorry for him. Humiliated, Phil retorts that he will take on any challenge. The group sees a sign for a parachute school giving jumping lessons. Gardner cons the instructor, Truman Sparks, into giving Phil a free lesson. Phil is terrified, but goes up into Truman's aircraft. However, he is carrying Truman's dirty laundry instead of a parachute. The boys try desperately to warn him from the ground without success. Phil, however, manages to open an emergency chute with much prompting from Truman by walkie-talkie. The Groovers get a picture for their efforts.
After discovering the charred, abandoned remains of the roadhouse, the Groovers press onward. They eventually reach a bluff overlooking the Rio Grande and dig up Dom – which turns out to be a magnum of Dom Pérignon champagne. Each takes a drink before Gardner toasts to "freedom and youth." Kenneth starts having second thoughts about calling off the engagement. Pondering on the nature of love, Gardner decides to make things right. He calls Kenneth's girlfriend, gets her to reaccept the engagement, and arranges for Truman Sparks to fly her from Dallas to the border town and back. When they arrive, it is revealed that Kenneth's girlfriend is Debbie, Gardner's ex. Through some trickery, reminiscent of stone soup, he sets up a wedding for Kenneth and Debbie, as Lester regains consciousness. After the ceremony, Gardner and Debbie share one last dance, a fandango. As they finish, Gardner leans in to kiss Debbie. But she shakes her head, kisses him on the cheek, and walks away.
Phil then gives Kenneth and Debbie his car as a wedding present. Lester goes to hitch a ride "anywhere", and Phil and Dorman shake hands before parting ways. Dorman says to his friend, "Have a great life." Perched atop a cliff overlooking the town and watching the wedding reception, Gardner lifts a beer in salute to his friends.[Note 2]
Cast
[edit]- Kevin Costner as Gardner Barnes
- Judd Nelson as Phil Hicks
- Sam Robards as Kenneth Waggener
- Chuck Bush as Dorman
- Brian Cesak as Lester Griffin
- E. G. Daily as Judy
- Marvin J. McIntyre as Truman Sparks
- Suzy Amis as Debbie
- Glenne Headly as Trelis
- Stanley Grover as Phil's Dad
- Jane A. Johnston as Phil's Mom
- Marco Perella as Jester
- Pepe Serna as Gas Station Mechanic
Production
[edit]Principal photography began in the spring of 1983 at a number of locations, primarily in Texas, including Alpine, Austin, El Paso, Fort Davis, Lajitas, Marathon, Marfa, Monahans, Pyote, Pecos, and San Elizario. Big Bend Ranch State Park in Texas (where Dom was located) and Tulsa, Oklahoma, were also prominent in the film.[8]
The skydiving sequence in Fandango is shot-for-shot taken from Kevin Reynolds's University of Southern California thesis film, Proof, from 1980. Spielberg had seen a copy of Proof and offered to produce the project, which became Fandango, through his company, Amblin Entertainment.[6][Note 3][10]
The supposed backdrop of downtown Dallas where Truman Sparks flies to is actually Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1984.[Note 4] The aerial sequence was filmed with the assistance of the Commemorative Air Force (then known as the Confederate Air Force), which has its main headquarters in Texas. The screen credits note: "Special thanks to the Confederate Air Force for their assistance in making this motion picture."[1]
Release
[edit]Warner Bros. delayed the release of the film reportedly because the then-unknown cast made the movie "unreleasable".[1] After viewing a completed cut of the film, Reynolds also noted script problems, and in March 1984, he was allowed a four-day reshoot.[1]
The film was finally released by Warner Bros. in a limited release in New York City and Los Angeles on January 25, 1985.[1] It earned a reported a $50,437 gross from 27 theaters,[1] and ultimately grossed less than US$100,000.[2]
Spielberg was said to be disappointed with the finished film, though Amblin Entertainment is still credited as the production company.[11] Spielberg admitted that the film "wasn't really released," but wouldn't say more than that. Asked to comment on Spielberg's hesitance to release the film, director Kevin Reynolds' agent simply responded: "He's tired of talking about Steven Spielberg, and he's busy."[12]
Reception
[edit]In her review of Fandango for The New York Times, Janet Maslin praised Kevin Reynolds' "way with the sight gags and off-the-wall humor that make this a notable debut. And he brings a good deal of feeling to the moments in which the film's twin specters – Vietnam and maturity – intrude upon the frantic festivities."[13] The Globe and Mail also praised the direction: "Reynolds shows an uncanny confidence with the camera, a sureness which is backed up by a powerful visual sensitivity and an ear for language, especially the vernacular of Texas, where the film is set."[14]
Leonard Maltin called Fandango "fresh and likeable, if uneven."[15] Quentin Tarantino reportedly described Fandango as "one of the best directorial debuts" in the history of cinema,[16] and is quoted as saying, "I saw Fandango five times at the movie theatre and it only played for a fucking week, all right?"[17]
Legacy
[edit]Modern reappraisals have focused on the storytelling and character development. Reviewer Bryan Pope critiqued the DVD version as, "Breezy and confident, and with a wing dinger of a soundtrack, Fandango is the definition of a sleeper. Before the final credits roll, its characters will have downed a few beers, faced fears, forged new friendships, tested old ones, and searched with some success for the answers to life's important questions. And, yes, one of them will even have danced the fandango under the Texas sky."[18]
Fandango grew in popularity through television and home video, and in July 2010, fans held a 25th-anniversary celebration at the filming locations.[19]
Reynolds and Costner later worked together on two more films, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) and Waterworld (1995).[Note 5] Reynolds was Costner's uncredited second-unit director and set advisor for the Western epic and Costner directorial debut Dances with Wolves (1990).[21] Reynolds and Costner collaborated once again on the History Channel mini-series Hatfields & McCoys (2012).
Notes
[edit]- ^ Costner had actually auditioned for a role in Proof, the original student film, but Reynolds had rejected him.[6]
- ^ The action of saluting his friends, leaves the audience to wonder if Gardner has left without saying goodbye to travel on to Mexico, thus avoiding the draft; or has he left his friends to avoid the pain of their departure and the last "Groover adventure."
- ^ Proof can be seen as part of Reel Talent: First Films by Legendary Directors, released in August 2007.[9]
- ^ Marvin J. McIntyre, aka Truman Sparks, made his first skydive at Blue Sky Ranch in Gardiner, New York, in September 2007. McIntyre played the Parachute Club chief instructor (as "Head Jumpin' Bean" in Proof).[9]
- ^ Their collaboration in Waterworld actually resulted in the two parting ways over creative and personal differences.[20]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f "Fandango (1985)". AFI Catalog. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
- ^ a b "Fandango". Box Office Mojo. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "30 years later, which movie would you watch: Fandango or Falcon and the Snowman?". Tampa Bay Times. January 26, 2015.
- ^ Caldwell, Rob (November 3, 2016). "The Sublime Marriage of Music and Image in 'Fandango'". PopMatters.
- ^ McBride 2011, p. 603.
- ^ a b c Abaius, Cole (May 12, 2009). "Interview: Kevin Reynolds Looks Back at 'Fandango'". Film School Rejects. Archived from the original on May 14, 2009. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "Fandango: Miscellaneous Notes". Turner Classic Movie Database. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "Fandango Movie Locations As They Appear Today". ultimatefandango.com. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ a b Jones, Preston (August 21, 2007). "Reel Talent: First Films by Legendary Directors". DVD Talk. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "Fandango (1985)". The New York Times. Archived from the original on May 16, 2013.
- ^ Keith 1991, p. 70.
- ^ Blum, David (March 24, 1986). "Steven Spielberg and the Dread Hollywood Backlash". New York. pp. 62–63.
- ^ Maslin, Janet (January 25, 1985). "Screen: 'Fandango,' Coming of age in 1971". The New York Times. Retrieved February 9, 2012.
- ^ Fraser, Matthew (March 12, 1985). "Not just another teen comedy". The Globe and Mail.
- ^ Maltin 2009, p. 437.
- ^ Vonder Haar, Pete (September 21, 2018). "Do-Over Cinema: Fandango Celebrates A Series of Foolish Acts". Houston Press. Retrieved February 14, 2023.
- ^ Tarantino, Quentin (1998). Quentin Tarantino: Interviews (1st ed.). University Press of Mississippi. p. 134. ISBN 978-1578060511. Retrieved February 14, 2023.
- ^ Pape, Brian. "Review: Fandango". DVD Verdict. Archived from the original on February 21, 2012. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "Ultimate Fandango 2013". Retrieved February 9, 2012 – via Facebook.
- ^ Campbell, Christopher (February 26, 2010). "Kevin Costner is 'Learning Italian' with 'Waterworld' director Kevin Reynolds". MTV. Archived from the original on March 12, 2017. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
- ^ "Kevin Reynolds Tells Which Kevin Really Directed 'Dances With Wolves'". Los Angeles Times. March 31, 1991. Retrieved February 10, 2012.
Further reading
[edit]- Keith, Todd (1991). Kevin Costner: the Unauthorized Biography. London: Icon Books. ISBN 978-1-870049-34-4.
- Maltin, Leonard (2009). Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide 2009 (1st ed.). New York: New American Library. ISBN 978-0-451-22468-2.
- McBride, Joseph (2011). Steven Spielberg: A Biography. Jackson, Mississippi: University Press of Mississippi. ISBN 978-1-60473-836-0.
External links
[edit]- Fandango at IMDb
- Fandango at the TCM Movie Database
- ‹The template AllMovie title is being considered for deletion.› Fandango at AllMovie
- Fandango at Rotten Tomatoes
- Fandango at Box Office Mojo
- Fandango at Apple TV
- 1985 films
- American aviation films
- 1985 comedy films
- Amblin Entertainment films
- Films about fraternities and sororities
- Films set in Texas
- Films set in 1971
- Films shot in Texas
- American road comedy-drama films
- American buddy comedy-drama films
- 1980s road comedy-drama films
- 1980s buddy comedy-drama films
- Warner Bros. films
- Films directed by Kevin Reynolds
- Skydiving in fiction
- Films scored by Alan Silvestri
- Features based on short films
- 1985 directorial debut films
- Films produced by Tim Zinnemann
- 1980s English-language films
- 1980s American films
- English-language comedy-drama films
- English-language buddy comedy-drama films