Tommy Boy, a film that firmly established Chris Farley as a comedy icon, celebrated its 30th anniversary on March 31. By the time it premiered, Farley was already a familiar face from his tenure on Saturday Night Live. This film not only highlighted his comedic prowess but also addressed the question of whether SNL alumni could transition into major film stars. Following the success of Tommy Boy, Farley went on to star in other notable comedies such as Beverly Hills Ninja and lent his voice to the title character in Shrek before his tragic passing in 1997.
The success of Tommy Boy can be attributed not just to Farley’s infectious talent, but also to the vision of director Peter Segal. Known for his work on numerous successful comedies over the past few decades—including 50 First Dates, Anger Management, and Naked Gun 33 ⅓: The Final Insult—Segal’s impact on the genre is substantial. More recently, he directed the acclaimed series Heels on STARZ, which is currently available on Netflix.
In a special celebration of the film’s 30th anniversary, ScreenRant’s Joe Deckelmeier conducted an interview with Segal. They delved into the collaborative process with Farley, discussed the film’s basis in reality, and explored how the script evolved during production. Additionally, Segal reflected on his recent work with Heels.
Insights from Peter Segal on Tommy Boy’s Enduring Appeal
“It Wasn’t Just About the Jokes”
While many films fade from the spotlight, Tommy Boy has developed a fervent cult following over its three decades. When questioned about its lasting popularity, Segal remarked, “I think it wasn’t just about the jokes. There’s a sweetness to the movie that I think made it resonate.” He continued, “That, along with the fact that it’s probably Chris’ best performance, combines to create a bittersweet quality that enhances its longevity.”
Tommy Boy’s 4K Remaster Had Unexpected Revelations
“We Started Revealing Things You’re Not Supposed to See”
The advancements in high-definition technology have transformed filmmaking, as Segal explained regarding the film’s recent 4K remaster. “I was amazed at how sharp it looks. In fact, it looked so good that we started revealing certain things that you’re not supposed to see—like cables and wires from stunt vehicles that I had never noticed before,” he noted.
Segal emphasized the importance of the old technologies used during production: “The first half of my career was on 35mm film, while the latter has been predominantly digital. There’s a noticeable difference when I reflect on the original Tommy Boy shot on 35mm. The new 4K version offers a clarity that feels like putting glasses on—it’s astonishing.”
Significant Alterations to the Original Script of Tommy Boy
“I Had A Different Idea for the Story”
While Bonnie and Terry Turner are credited as the original writers for the film, Segal revealed that the script’s development faced challenges due to his unique artistic vision: “When I joined, we didn’t have a definitive script because my concept diverged significantly, essentially discarding much of what was originally proposed. I aimed to craft a narrative that wasn’t solely focused on saving a factory but also deeply intertwined with a father-son story, which was significant to Farley due to his own relationship with his father.”
Segal described the chaotic nature of filmmaking: “Our writers returned to Saturday Night Live, and our initial writers couldn’t assist anymore because they were occupied with another project. Eventually, Fred Wolf stepped in to help assemble 66 pages ahead of principal photography, but surprisingly, we still didn’t have an ending scripted as we approached the conclusion of filming.”
Real-Life Inspirations Behind Tommy Boy
“The Story Was Put Together Piece by Piece”
The chemistry between Chris Farley and David Spade was instrumental in shaping the film, as Segal recounted an amusing anecdote: “One day, Farley stepped out in his now-iconic brown tweed jacket during a wardrobe test and jokingly asked Spade, ‘Does this suit make me look fat?’ To which Spade replied, ‘No, your face does.’ I knew that had to go in the film.” Segal often drew inspiration from their interactions, whether it was capturing them during dinner or observing their off-screen antics.
Segal further elaborated on his personal experiences that influenced the narrative: “Fred Wolf shared a story about leaving an oil can under his car hood, leading to a chaotic moment when it flew open. I myself had a mishap at a gas station while trying to fill my wife’s car and ended up hyperextending the door. I also recalled a date in Arizona when I was at a tranquil lake and suddenly faced taunts from kids on the shore.”
Chris Farley’s Unmatched Physical Comedy
“He Was Sort of a Victim of His Own Abilities”
Farley’s exceptional talent for physical comedy meant that he often performed stunts himself. Segal remarked, “Though he had a stunt double, Farley was so naturally gifted that he predominantly handled the physical comedy on his own. For instance, during the scene where Spade inadvertently hit him with a two-by-four, it was Chris who bore the brunt of that.”
A Favorite Cut Scene Revealed by Segal
“We Almost Killed Rob Lowe”
The recently released 4K UHD remaster features a gag reel and previously unseen footage. Segal reminisced about a scene he regretted not including in the final cut: “We had a sequence involving Rob Lowe attempting to sabotage a water tower while it was frigid outside, where he would smoke a cigar. Unfortunately, the prop master used Cuban cigars, which made Lowe feel nauseous.”
Segal lamented, “This hilarious moment didn’t even make it into the film.” He expressed a continuous sense of trepidation whenever friends and colleagues inquire about missing scenes during premieres, saying, “I always feel a mix of guilt and anxiety whenever I hear, ‘Hey, what happened?'”
Exploring Wrestling with Heels
“I’ve Had the Good Fortune to Have Worked with Many Wrestlers”
Although Heels has concluded, viewers can still catch it on Netflix. Co-created by Michael Waldron, the series dives into the world of independent wrestling. Segal directed several episodes and shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’ve had the pleasure of working with numerous wrestlers throughout my career—from Stone Cold Steve Austin on The Longest Yard to working with Dwayne Johnson in Get Smart and later with Dave Bautista in My Spy.”
Heels to me, I was keenly aware of that universe. This project allowed me to delve deeper into the behind-the-scenes aspects, which greatly appealed to me.”
For those interested, the 30th Anniversary edition of Tommy Boy is now available for purchase in 4K UHD.
Source: ScreenRant Plus