Michael J. Fox Recalls the Chaotic Yet Memorable Collaboration with Crispin Glover on the Set of 'Back to the Future'
In a recent interview marking the 40th anniversary of 'Back to the Future' (1985), Michael J. Fox reflected on the making of the time-travel classic, revealing a behind-the-scenes anecdote about his co-star, Crispin Glover. Fox's new memoir, 'Future Boy', offers a glimpse into the unique and sometimes challenging dynamics of the film's production.
According to Fox, Glover's approach to his character, George McFly, was unconventional and unpredictable. Glover had his own ideas about how and where George should move, which sometimes clashed with the camera crew's plans. In one memorable scene, Glover refused to stay within the designated lane, forcing the crew to get creative.
'Nobody puts Crispin in a box, but that didn't stop them from building one around him,' Fox wrote. The actor explained that the crew had to fabricate a miniature corral made of sandbags and C-stands to contain Glover's spontaneous movements. Despite the challenges, Fox admired Glover's talent and his commitment to embodying George McFly.
'His talent was unquestionable, even if his methods sometimes created friction,' Fox said. 'Still, I respected how he remained true to George as he understood and embodied him.'
Fox also noted that he had known Glover before 'Back to the Future' and that there was no way to prepare for working with him. 'With Chris Lloyd, I had an inkling of what he was up to, but neither he nor Crispin ever did the same thing the same way twice,' he added. Glover's unique approach to acting and his interpretation of George McFly left a lasting impression on Fox and the film's crew, making the collaboration both chaotic and memorable.