Paul Brickman’s 1983 quintessential coming-of-age movie ‘Risky Business’ contains one of cinemas most indelible images. An era defining image that created arguably the biggest movie star in the world. Ask anyone about ‘Risky Business’ and the first thing that will slide into their brain is the moment Joel (Tom Cruise) slides into frame in his underwear and starts dancing to Bob Seger’s ‘Old Time Rock and Roll’. The scene only lasts a few seconds, but its impact on this film, and on pop culture in general is colossal.
What makes it even more interesting is that brief but powerful image, along with the title of the film, and its premise, all seem to promise a typical raunchy teen movie. But ‘Risky Business’ is so much more than that. A sly anti-capitalist satire, with a dreamlike visual style, and a bitterly funny view of the emptiness behind the relentless pursuit of material wealth and societal values endorsed by Reagan-era politics. Restored in stunning 4K by Criterion, and boasting a terrific selection of special features, this is an essential addition to your collection.
Tom Cruise, in one of his earliest leading roles is Joel Goodson, a rich high-school student living a sheltered suburban life until his parents decide to go on vacation for a week leaving him in the house by himself. Egged on by friend Miles to adopt a “what the fuck” approach to life every once in a while, he decides to have some fun. Starting with the aforementioned drunk dancing to Bob Seger, his hormones kick in and his next risky bit of business is to hire a prostitute. The stunningly gorgeous Lana (Rebecca De Mornay) comes into his life for the night, and changes it forever.
An encounter with a menacing pimp (Joe Pantoliano), a valuable stolen ornament, and a smashed up Porsche later, Joel and Lana take drastic action to put his life back in order by turning his house into a brothel for one night. Again, it sounds like a plot from a regular 80s sex comedy, but Brickman’s terrific writing, and lyrical directorial style elevate the film, with a level of real sophistication and artistry. A lighthearted teenage romp gradually unveils itself as a potent critique of the American dream.
Cruise is excellent as the young man trying to navigate the treacherous waters of impending adulthood. The arrogant cocksure grin brilliantly offset by the moments of confusion and vulnerability. We know this film catapulted him to stardom, but the true star of the film is Rebecca De Mornay, bringing real complexity and depth to what could have been a one note role. It’s a fascinating performance, which in similar fashion to this film as whole, has been somewhat lost behind a singular iconic moment. In De Mornay’s case it is the captivating, fantasy first encounter with Joel.
There’s no denying that ‘Risky Business’ is an artefact of its era, but the excellent performances, directorial finesse, and interrogations into the cost of ambition make this a timeless addition to the coming-of-age genre. Funny, sexy, thought-provoking, and with a cracking score by Tangerine Dream. It’s much more than just Tom Cruise dancing in his pants.
This new Criterion Collection release comes with two 4K UHD versions of the film: the original theatrical cut, and the director’s cut. There’s an audio commentary with the theatrical cut featuring Paul Brickman, producer Jon Avnet, and Tom Cruise. There are also brand new interviews with Avnet and casting director Nancy Klopper. Next up is a new conversation between editor Richard Chew and film historian Bobbie O’Steen.
‘The Dream is Always the Same: The Story of Risky Business’ is a behind the scenes program featuring interviews with Brickman, Avnet, and cast members. There’s also terrific screen test footage with Cruise and De Mornay. The disc is rounded out with the trailer. The booklet comes with an essay by film curator and critic Dave Kehr.
Cast: Tom Cruise, Rebecca De Mornay, Joe Pantoliano Director: Paul Brickman Writer: Paul Brickman Released By: Spirit Entertainment Certificate: 15 Duration: 99 mins Release Date: 29 July 2024
