Michael Landon Takes the Credit for Michael J. Fox’s Role in Teen Wolf
In 1985, Michael J. Fox emerged as a leading figure in Hollywood. He starred in the successful sitcom Family Ties and enjoyed box office success with two major films. One was the iconic Back to the Future, which solidified his status as an A-lister. The other was Teen Wolf, a film that has garnered nostalgia over the years, despite not being critically acclaimed.
Teen Wolf: A Look Back
Teen Wolf tells the story of Scott Howard, portrayed by Michael J. Fox. Scott, an average high school student, discovers he is a werewolf. This transformation brings him newfound popularity and athletic success. However, Scott learns that embracing his true self goes beyond mere popularity.
Box Office Performance and Reception
- Teen Wolf was made with a budget of $4 million.
- The film grossed approximately $80 million in theaters.
- Currently holds a 46% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Despite its box office success, the film received mixed reviews. The Hollywood Reporter labeled it as “dramatic dribble.” Meanwhile, the Washington Post described it as “bland and unoriginal.”
Michael J. Fox’s Reflections
In his memoir, Future Boy, Fox shares candid thoughts about his involvement in Teen Wolf. He acknowledges that the film was not a major highlight of his career. He explains how he came to accept the role during a hiatus from Family Ties due to Meredith Baxter’s pregnancy.
Fox’s agent presented the script for Teen Wolf, a quick production that fit perfectly into his schedule. The idea of portraying a teenage werewolf appealed to him, especially since it had previously worked for one of his idols, Michael Landon.
The Influence of Michael Landon
Michael Landon starred in the 1957 film I Was a Teenage Werewolf, which became a significant influence for Fox. This earlier film, produced on a modest budget of $150,000, earned over $2 million at the box office. It was celebrated as a classic among teen horror films of its time.
Teen Wolf, while a hit for Fox, didn’t reach the same legendary status. Nevertheless, his charm and relatability contributed to the film’s ongoing appeal. In retrospect, Fox humorously notes that he had to endure wearing twenty-five pounds of yak hair for his role.
Ultimately, Michael J. Fox’s performance in Teen Wolf remains a memorable chapter in his early career, showcasing his transition from television star to film leading man.
