The Rise and Fall of a Hollywood Star: Burt Reynolds' 'Stick'
In the fickle world of Hollywood, few stories capture the highs and lows of stardom like the tale of Burt Reynolds and his 1985 thriller, 'Stick'. This movie, a hidden gem in Reynolds' filmography, is a fascinating study of a star's struggle against studio demands and personal adversity.
The Golden Years
Personally, I find it intriguing to start with Reynolds' peak. In the early 1980s, he was on top of the world, with box office hits like 'Best Friends' and 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas'. His directorial debut, 'Sharky's Machine', showcased his talent behind the camera, earning critical acclaim. This success set the stage for 'Stick', a project that promised to be another gritty crime masterpiece.
Assembling a Dream Team
Reynolds gathered a stellar cast, including Charles Durning, Candice Bergen, and George Segal, his former box office rival. This ensemble, a mix of friends and foes, was a testament to Reynolds' clout in the industry. However, the road to 'Stick' was not without its bumps.
The Downward Spiral
What many don't realize is that 1983 marked a turning point. Reynolds' career began to falter with consecutive flops, 'Stroker Ace' and 'The Man Who Loved Women'. Yet, Universal Pictures, perhaps sensing his potential, allowed him creative freedom for 'Stick'. This trust, rare in the studio system, would soon be tested.
The Perfect Storm
The real drama unfolded during the filming of his next movie, 'City Heat'. In a cruel twist, Reynolds suffered a severe jaw injury, leading to chronic pain and a dramatic physical transformation. This incident, coupled with the failure of 'The Cannonball Run II', left him vulnerable.
Studio Intervention
When Reynolds presented his vision for 'Stick', a character-driven drama, the studio balked. They demanded a shift towards action, a genre more palatable to the 1980s audience. This is where the story takes an intriguing turn.
Reshoots and Redemption
The reshoots, though extensive, added a layer of authenticity. Reynolds, despite his physical struggles, delivered a compelling performance. His frailty, far from being a hindrance, gave his character a raw edge. This is a testament to his acting prowess and the power of adversity in storytelling.
The Leaked Cut and Public Perception
The 'Reynolds Cut', which eventually leaked, reveals a different movie altogether. While it had its flaws, it showcased the original vision. The public perception of Reynolds' health, fueled by rumors of AIDS, adds a tragic layer to the story.
A Cult Classic is Born
Despite the studio's interference and Elmore Leonard's public disdain, 'Stick' has endured. The surviving elements from Reynolds' original cut, combined with the 80s action tropes, create a unique blend. It's a testament to the film's resilience that it has become a cult favorite, despite its box office failure.
The Legacy of 'Stick'
In my opinion, 'Stick' is more than just a forgotten thriller. It's a reflection of an era, a star's struggle, and the power of creative vision. It reminds us that behind every movie is a human story, filled with triumphs and tragedies. This is why 'Stick' deserves to be rediscovered, not just as a Burt Reynolds film, but as a cinematic journey through the highs and lows of Hollywood.
