Back to the Future Part III, released on May 20, 1990, marked the culmination of the beloved trilogy. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film featured Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly. In this installment, Marty journeys back to 1885 to rescue Christopher Lloyd’s character, Doc Brown.
Production Challenges and Near-Tragic Incident
While the film achieved critical and commercial success, it almost became the end of Michael J. Fox’s acting career. A dangerous incident during filming in the winter of 1989 nearly resulted in tragedy. Fox’s character, Marty, is pursued by a lynch mob determined to hang him.
In a pivotal scene, Marty is hoisted up with a rope. At this point, Doc intervenes, shooting the rope to save him. However, the making of this scene was fraught with danger. Fox detailed this precarious moment in his memoir, *Lucky Man: A Memoir*.
Stunt Gone Wrong
During the shoot, directors intended for only a partial view of Fox’s body. He stood on a wooden box for the initial takes, which supported him while filming the scene. Although planned as a stunt, a close-up of his face required Fox to attempt the shot without the box.
- Initial attempts were successful, but on the third try, he misjudged his positioning.
- The rope inadvertently cut off his carotid artery, causing him to lose consciousness.
- He remained suspended for a few seconds before director Zemeckis realized the situation.
Fortunately, the crew managed to rescue Fox before any severe harm occurred. Ultimately, the film was completed successfully, and no fatalities were reported during production.
Legacy of the Film
Despite the production’s challenges, Back to the Future Part III became a cherished addition to the franchise. The film’s blend of adventure, humor, and heart solidified its place in cinematic history. Fans continue to celebrate the film and its contributions to pop culture today.
