Before Michael J. Fox cemented his place in cinematic history, Eric Stoltz was the first actor cast as Marty McFly in the 1985 classic, “Back to the Future.” This casting change is often cited as a prime example of the unpredictable alchemy of filmmaking. But beyond the casting intrigue, a lesser-known story reveals Stoltz playfully terrorizing tourists at Universal Studios while still in character.
The story, recounted by “Weird Science” star Ilan Mitchell-Smith in a 2014 interview, details a mischievous incident that occurred in 1984 while both actors were filming on the Universal lot. Stoltz commandeered a golf cart and embarked on a series of mock “attacks” on a tram full of unsuspecting visitors, offering them a glimpse into an alternate 1985.
A Tram Tour Strafe Run
As Mitchell-Smith shared with the blog Kickin’ It Old School (via Rediscover the ’80s), the day began casually: “I was on a lunch break, and I saw Eric Stoltz driving up in one of the golf carts that PAs and crew use to get around the lot. It turns out that he had somehow stolen this thing and he asked if I wanted to ride around a bit. At first we just toodled around the studio, chatting and looking at all of the sets and actors from the other films and shows.”
But when Stoltz spotted the Universal Studios tram packed with tourists, his playful side took over. Mitchell-Smith continued: “For the next half hour Eric assaulted this tram like a WWII fighter pilot going after a bomber. He first circled around to charge the flank of the thing at top golfing speed (which is faster than you would expect), only to peel off at the last minute among the shrieks of fear from the tram passengers. Circling again, we charged another part of the tram, and then another, and then another, and the tourists were yelling and throwing up their hands and getting out of their seats to avoid what they thought was going to be an accident at any moment.”
Mitchell-Smith noted the irony, suggesting that many ‘80s fans today would have relished the chance to witness Stoltz, in full Marty McFly attire, playfully “attacking” the Universal Tour in a stolen golf cart.
Stoltz’s Behavior Hints at His Intense Portrayal
The golf cart incident may offer insight into Stoltz’s approach to the role. Lea Thompson, who starred alongside Stoltz in 1984’s “The Wild Life,” and other “Back to the Future” cast and crew members have noted that Stoltz’s dedication to method acting contributed to his eventual replacement. Thompson described Stoltz as having “such an intensity,” and reportedly, he insisted on being addressed as Marty even when not filming.
What little footage exists of Stoltz’s performance supports this assessment, as his Marty appears to lack the easygoing charm that Michael J. Fox brought to the character. His playful tram “attacks” suggest a Marty with a more rebellious streak, a departure from the insecure slacker archetype ultimately favored for the film.
Ultimately, Stoltz’s casting wasn’t the right fit, as the film needed a comedic element he wasn’t delivering. He later found success in ensemble roles, including his part in the 1990 film “Memphis Belle,” portraying a crewmember of the titular World War II B-17. Perhaps, in retrospect, that was the role truly meant for him.
