Michael J. Fox Reflects on 40 Years of “Back to the Future”

Michael J. Fox commemorates the 40th anniversary of “Back to the Future,” a film that not only launched his career but also remains a beloved cultural landmark. In a recent interview from his New York apartment, Fox shared his thoughts on the enduring legacy of the film, which premiered on July 3, 1985. “I’ll be on the street and some kid will go, ‘There’s Marty McFly!’” he remarked. “No, this is an old man.”

The anniversary celebration includes a special re-release of “Back to the Future” in theaters and a new 4K trilogy gift set that features an iconic OUTATIME license plate. Fox has also published a memoir titled “Future Boy: ‘Back to the Future’ and My Journey Through the Space-Time Continuum,” co-authored with Nelle Fortenberry, reflecting on his experiences both on and off the screen.

Timeless Appeal of a Classic

Originally directed by Robert Zemeckis, “Back to the Future” captured audiences with its unique blend of science fiction and comedy. The film’s nostalgic elements are deeply intertwined with its 1980s context. Upon its release, it became the No. 1 movie in theaters for 11 of its first 12 weeks, even garnering praise from then-President Ronald Reagan.

Despite its roots in the past, Fox believes the film has transcended its era. “The distance between now and 1985 is greater than the distance between 1985 and 1955,” he noted. “In a way, that makes it more accessible.” He added that viewers today are free from the constraints of their time period, allowing them to appreciate the film’s fantasy elements fully.

Reflecting on the sequel set in 2015, Fox noted the absurdity of the imagined future. “Doc, this is heavy,” he said, invoking the film’s iconic dialogue.

The Making of a Cultural Icon

Fox’s portrayal of Marty McFly is often cited as a quintessential example of the teenage character in film. He recalls, “I found my voice changing. This kind of squeaky incredulity came out.” At just 24 years old, Fox stepped into the role after Eric Stoltz was replaced following several weeks of filming. His energetic performance brought a fresh dynamic to the character, contrasting sharply with his previous role as Alex P. Keaton on the television show “Family Ties.”

The experience of filming was surreal for Fox, who was thrust into a high-pressure situation without rehearsal. “I didn’t have time to investigate what happened with Eric. I had no pep talk,” he explained. Instead, he embraced the chaos, describing a vividly lit parking lot where filming took place. “This must have cost more than the entire budget of ‘Family Ties,’” he recalled.

Fox’s chemistry with co-star Christopher Lloyd, who played Doc Brown, developed organically. “He’s like a father figure and a little brother to me, in a weird way,” Fox said, reflecting on their bond.

As he navigates his own health challenges stemming from Parkinson’s disease, Fox finds deeper meaning in the film’s themes of time and change. His advocacy for Parkinson’s research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation, founded in 2000, has made significant strides, making it the largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research worldwide. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2023, recognizing his contributions to both entertainment and philanthropy.

“My kids are grown up and they’re doing well and getting married one by one,” Fox shared, expressing pride in his family. “Exhaustion is my biggest issue. But I feel good. And I love rolling around in this movie because I know how much it means to people.”

While Fox has taken a step back from acting, he is set to make a guest appearance in the upcoming third season of the Apple TV+ series “Shrinking.” Reflecting on his ongoing connection with “Back to the Future,” he recounted a moment from a past Christmas when he found himself engrossed in the film on television. “I said, ‘I’m watching “Back to the Future.” And, you know, it’s really good. I’m good in it,’” he said with a smile.

As “Back to the Future” once again captures audiences in theaters, Michael J. Fox’s reflections remind us of the film’s lasting impact and the joy it continues to bring to viewers across generations.