Michael J. Fox, best known for his role as Marty McFly in “Back to the Future,” has had a diverse and impactful career in Hollywood. While this iconic role remains a significant part of his legacy, Fox’s filmography encompasses a variety of other projects that deserve recognition.
Michael J. Fox’s Underrated Movie: Casualties of War
One of Fox’s lesser-known films, “Casualties of War,” has garnered renewed interest. Released in 1989, this Vietnam War drama was directed by Brian De Palma and starred Sean Penn alongside Fox. The film tells a harrowing story based on true events involving a brutal attack by US soldiers on a Vietnamese woman.
A Difficult Release
“Casualties of War” faced challenges at the box office, despite its critical acclaim. With a production budget of approximately $20 million, the film barely broke even. Fox himself noted that it was better to fail with an ambitious project than to succeed with something dull.
Critical Reappraisal
- Originally misunderstood, “Casualties of War” received mixed reactions upon release.
- Quentin Tarantino has since praised it as one of the best films about the Vietnam War.
- Recent reviews highlight the strong performances from both Fox and Penn.
The Legacy Beyond
Following “Casualties of War,” Fox experienced a resurgence in his career. His roles in Peter Jackson’s “The Frighteners” and the “Stuart Little” series brought significant box office success. Additionally, he starred in the television series “Spin City,” which aired until 2001.
While Fox will always be recognized as Marty McFly, “Casualties of War” stands out as an important film that showcases his range as an actor. Fox has described the film as one that “never got a fair shake,” but its legacy continues to grow among cinephiles.
