Michael J. Fox Reveals Crispin Glover’s Tension on Back to the Future Set No Way to Prepare

As the 40th anniversary of the iconic film “Back to the Future” approaches, Michael J. Fox reflects on his experiences during the production. In his new memoir “Future Boy,” Fox shares insights about his co-star Crispin Glover and the unique tensions that arose on set.
Micheal J. Fox Discusses Crispin Glover’s Unique Approach
Fox describes Glover’s portrayal of George McFly as both innovative and challenging. Glover’s distinctive method acted created friction during filming. “Nobody puts Crispin in a box,” Fox stated, highlighting Glover’s free-spirited approach to his character.
On-Set Dynamics and Challenges
During one filming scene, Fox and Glover faced a challenge when Glover refused to stay within his designated mark. Fox recalls, “As Crispin approached the camera, he was meant to stay in a lane between the clothesline and me. But Crispin had a different plan.” This unpredictability led the crew to construct a makeshift barrier to contain Glover’s wandering movements.
- Filming Challenge: Glover’s free-spirited approach led to difficulties on set.
- Camera Crew Solution: A box made of sandbags and C-stands was created to confine his movements.
- Reflection on Acting: Fox admired Glover’s dedication to his character despite the challenges.
Legacy and Recasting
Glover’s performance as George McFly was so remarkable that he was recast in the sequels, “Back to the Future Part II” in 1989 and “Part III” in 1990. Fox expressed admiration for Glover’s talent and methods, stating, “His talent was unquestionable, although his methods sometimes created friction.”
Ultimately, Fox concluded that working with Glover was a unique experience that defied traditional acting preparation. “There’s no way to prepare for Crispin,” Fox noted, reflecting on the unpredictable yet enriching collaboration they shared.
As fans celebrate this classic film’s milestone, Michael J. Fox’s memories offer a glimpse into the creative tensions that shaped the unforgettable journey of “Back to the Future.”