The Rise and Fall of a Hollywood Star: Burt Reynolds' 'Stick'
In the world of cinema, few stories are as captivating as the behind-the-scenes drama of a film's production. And when it comes to the 1985 thriller 'Stick', directed by and starring Burt Reynolds, we have a tale that is as intriguing as any Hollywood script. This movie, my friends, is a prime example of how a star's fate can be intertwined with the success of a film, and how studio interference can drastically alter the final product.
The Golden Years of Burt Reynolds
Let's set the scene. In the early 1980s, Burt Reynolds was on top of the world. With hits like 'Best Friends' and 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas', he was a box office magnet. His directorial debut, 'Sharky's Machine', was also a critical success, setting the stage for 'Stick' to be its spiritual successor. The plan was to create a gritty yet lighthearted crime flick, and Reynolds gathered a stellar cast, including Charles Durning, Candice Bergen, and his former rival, George Segal.
A String of Misfortunes
However, fate had other plans. Reynolds' career took a turn with the back-to-back flops of 'Stroker Ace' and 'The Man Who Loved Women'. Despite this, Universal Pictures gave him creative freedom with 'Stick'. But as they say, when it rains, it pours. During the filming of his next movie, 'City Heat', Reynolds suffered a severe injury, shattering his jaw. This led to a painful condition that left him in agony and caused significant weight loss.
Studio Intervention and Reshoots
Here's where the story takes an even more dramatic twist. When Reynolds presented his original cut of 'Stick' to Universal, they were less than impressed. They demanded a shift from a character-driven drama to an action-packed thriller. This led to extensive reshoots, transforming the film's narrative and tone. The original villain, Chucky, was demoted, and new action sequences were added, including a jaw-dropping stunt by the late Dar Robinson.
The Silver Lining in the Reshoots
What's fascinating is that these reshoots, despite being a creative intrusion, added an unexpected layer to the film. Reynolds' physical frailty, a result of his injury, gave his character a raw, believable edge. His struggles during the action scenes felt authentic, creating a unique dynamic. This is a testament to his dedication, as he later revealed he was in immense pain during filming.
The Duality of 'Stick'
The movie, in its final form, is a curious blend of two visions. The original cut, which leaked to the public due to a shipping error, was flawed. It lacked the energy and pace expected from a film of that era. However, the theatrical version, with its 80s action flair, also had its issues. The studio's interference diluted the complexity of the characters, particularly Candice Bergen's role.
The Legacy of a Troubled Production
'Stick' ultimately became a cult favorite, despite its box office failure. It's a testament to the era, the setting, and the remarkable stunt work. But it also serves as a cautionary tale of studio meddling and the impact of a star's personal struggles on a film's fate. Reynolds' career never quite recovered from this period, but 'Stick' remains a fascinating artifact, offering a unique glimpse into the challenges of filmmaking.
