Diane Lane Reflects on Filming Coppola’s Classic ‘The Outsiders’

Actor Diane Lane recently reflected on her experience filming the classic movie ‘The Outsiders,’ directed by Francis Ford Coppola. During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, she spoke about her interactions with an ensemble cast of future Hollywood stars, including Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, and Patrick Swayze.

Diane Lane’s Experience on ‘The Outsiders’

In the discussion, Lane reminisced about sharing the screen with “every single young man who would become the biggest male movie stars.” She described the atmosphere as overwhelming, saying, “It was hot! It was great.” However, she added humorously, “It was kind of… too much testosterone for one girl,” indicating that she often kept to herself during filming.

A Glimpse into the Film’s Setting

‘The Outsiders’ is set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the year 1964. The film portrays the intense rivalry between two gangs: the Greasers, who come from a lower socioeconomic background, and the wealthier Socs. The narrative escalates when a violent incident occurs between gang members, which serves as a pivotal moment in the story.

Memorable Moments from Filming

Lane shared a particularly vivid memory from a scene at a drive-in cinema with co-star C. Thomas Howell, who played Ponyboy Curtis. She reminisced about how filmmakers created a dust storm for the scene using large fans and cocoa powder to simulate the effect safely. Lane humorously noted that by the end of the shoot, they appeared “white striping” from the dust and “looked tan and sweet.”

Diane Lane’s Career Highlights

• Film debut in ‘A Little Romance’ (1979).
• Notable roles in ‘Streets of Fire’ and ‘The Cotton Club’ (1984).
• Recognition for her performance in ‘A Walk on the Moon’ (1999).
• Nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in ‘Lonesome Dove’ (1989).

Over the years, Diane Lane has established a prominent career with various acclaimed performances. Her journey reflects her versatility and commitment to the craft, making her a notable figure in the film industry.

As she looks back on her time filming ‘The Outsiders,’ it’s clear that the experience not only shaped her career but also left lasting memories in her mind.