Episode 102 - Retro Rewind - The Adventures of Ford Fairlane (1990) Review

Flick Flops

This week, we’re diving into the wild world of The Adventures of Ford Fairlane (1990). Directed by Renny Harlin and starring Andrew Dice Clay as the rock 'n' roll detective, this film takes us on a chaotic journey through the Los Angeles music scene. But does this cult classic hit the right notes, or is it a one-hit wonder? Let’s find out!

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"The Adventures of Ford Fairlane" is a 1990 American action comedy film directed by Renny Harlin. The film stars Andrew Dice Clay as Ford Fairlane, a "Rock n' Roll Detective" navigating the music industry's underbelly in Los Angeles.

**Release Date:** July 11, 1990

**Director:** Renny Harlin

**Producers:** Steve Perry, Joel Silver

**Screenplay:** David Arnott, James Cappe, Daniel Waters

**Story:** David Arnott, James Cappe

**Main Cast:**

- Andrew Dice Clay as Ford Fairlane

- Wayne Newton as Julian Grendel

- Priscilla Presley as Colleen Sutton

- Lauren Holly as Jazz

- Morris Day as Don Cleveland

- Gilbert Gottfried as Johnny Crunch

- Maddie Corman as Zuzu Petals

- Robert Englund as Smiley

- Ed O'Neill as Lt. Amos

**Fun Facts:**

- The character of Ford Fairlane originated in a series of stories by writer Rex Weiner, published as weekly serials in 1979–80 by the New York Rocker and the LA Weekly. These stories were later compiled into a book published in July 2018.

- Howard Stern was initially considered for the role of Johnny Crunch, which ultimately went to Gilbert Gottfried. Additionally, Billy Idol was originally slated to play the role of Bobby Black, and David Bowie was approached to play Julian Grendel, but both roles were recast.

- The film's soundtrack features "Cradle of Love" by Billy Idol, which became one of his biggest hits, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The soundtrack also includes contributions from artists like Mötley Crüe, Queensrÿche, and Richie Sambora.

- Despite its initial commercial and critical failure, the film has since developed a cult following. It was awarded the Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Picture, tying with "Ghosts Can't Do It."

**Interesting Details:**

"The Adventures of Ford Fairlane" was directed by Finnish filmmaker Renny Harlin, who was gaining prominence in Hollywood at the time. The film was produced by Joel Silver, known for action hits like "Die Hard" and "Lethal Weapon." The production had a budget of approximately $20 million and grossed around $21.4 million domestically, making it a modest box office performer.

The film is notable for its integration of real musicians and industry personalities. Vince Neil, lead singer of Mötley Crüe, appears as Bobby Black, while other musicians like Morris Day, Sheila E., and Tone Loc have roles that blend their musical personas with the film's narrative. This casting choice aimed to lend authenticity to the film's depiction of the rock and roll scene.

A significant prop in the film is Ford Fairlane's car, a 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner. In one scene, the car is destroyed in an explosion. After receiving numerous letters of protest from classic-car enthusiasts, the production company clarified that an actual 1957 Ford Fairlane was not destroyed; instead, a fiberglass replica body on a newer Ford chassis was used for the explosion.

The film's release was strategically planned. According to writer Daniel Waters, it was initially slated for release in May 1990 to compete with "Cadillac Man" and "Bird on a Wire." However, 20th Century Fox moved the release to July to build awareness of Andrew Dice Clay, a decision Waters later cited as a mistake.

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