Lea Thompson, known for her iconic role in the beloved ‘Back to the Future’ franchise, recently shared her thoughts on which film in the series is her favourite. As the original movie celebrates its 40th anniversary, Thompson sat down with PEOPLE to reflect on what makes the film special even after all these years.
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Despite having a hard time choosing a favourite among the trilogy, Thompson ultimately picked the first ‘Back to the Future’ film as her top choice. She cited the screenplay as a key factor, describing it as “perfect” and praising its concise and well-constructed nature. In comparison, Thompson noted that the sequels, ‘Back to the Future 2’ and ‘Back to the Future 3’, were initially planned as one movie before being split into two, affecting their narrative structure.
Looking back on the making of the original film, Thompson revealed that there were no plans for a sequel at the time. The unexpected success and enduring popularity of ‘Back to the Future’ came as a pleasant surprise to the cast and crew. Thompson’s character, Lorraine Baines McFly, has become an iconic part of cinematic history, resonating with audiences of all ages through the years.
While Thompson appreciates all three films in the series, she did admit that her role in the third instalment wasn’t as fulfilling as in the others. Despite this, she acknowledged Christopher Lloyd’s fondness for the third film, highlighting his personal connection to the storyline. Lloyd, who portrayed Doc Brown, reportedly considered the third film special as it featured his character kissing a girl on-screen – a unique moment in his acting career.
The timeless appeal and enduring “magic” of the ‘Back to the Future’ series continue to captivate audiences, with Thompson expressing gratitude for being associated with such an iconic film. Even decades after its release, Thompson finds joy in seeing new generations discover and enjoy the movie, creating a lasting legacy that transcends time.
Beyond her on-screen successes, Thompson shared a humorous anecdote about her daughters being less enthusiastic about watching their mother in romantic scenes. Her past roles, including those in ‘Back to the Future’ and the TV series ‘Caroline in the City’, led to some emotional reactions from her children, who found it challenging to see their mother kissing different actors on screen.
Despite her daughters’ reactions, Thompson cherishes the impact that ‘Back to the Future’ has had on her life and career. The film remains a cherished part of her filmography, bringing joy to audiences worldwide and solidifying her status as a beloved figure in the realm of entertainment.
As the ‘Back to the Future’ series continues to be celebrated and cherished by fans, Lea Thompson’s reflections offer a unique insight into the enduring legacy of the beloved franchise. Her sentiments highlight the lasting impact of the films and the special memories created during the making of these timeless classics.
In conclusion, Lea Thompson’s nostalgic recollections remind us of the enduring appeal of ‘Back to the Future’ and the timeless magic it continues to bring to audiences around the world. With its blend of adventure, humour, and heartwarming moments, the film remains a beloved favourite for fans of all ages.