The 1980s were a golden era for action-packed buddy comedies, with studios capitalizing on the successful formula of pairing a funny lead with a straight man. This trend, exemplified by Walter Hill's "48 Hrs." starring Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy, led to some bizarre and intriguing casting combinations. One such project, which thankfully never materialized, was a buddy flick that would have united Michael J. Fox and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The idea of these two iconic actors sharing the screen is intriguing, but it's a good thing it didn't come to fruition, at least in the context of Joe Dante's "Innerspace." This film, which began as a serious sci-fi script, evolved into a hilarious and thrilling spectacle, and the casting of Dennis Quaid and Martin Short was a stroke of genius.
"Innerspace" started as a spec script by Chip Proser, inspired by the classic "Fantastic Voyage." The original concept involved a miniaturized Michael J. Fox inside Arnold Schwarzenegger's body, a premise that screenwriter Jeffrey Boam initially rejected. However, Boam eventually embraced the project, transforming it into a wild and far-out script that attracted the attention of directors like Dick Donner, Joe Dante, and even Steven Spielberg.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the insight into the creative process and the power dynamics of Hollywood. Boam's initial hesitation and the studio's persistence showcase the delicate balance between artistic vision and commercial viability. It's a reminder that even the most absurd ideas can find their way to the big screen, especially when backed by influential producers and directors.
In my opinion, Dante's decision to cast Quaid and Short was a masterstroke. While Schwarzenegger and Fox would have brought star power, Quaid and Short brought a unique dynamic to the film. Quaid's confident test pilot and Short's anxious grocery clerk created a hilarious contrast, elevating the comedy and ensuring the film's success.
"Innerspace" is a perfect example of how a talented screenwriter and director can take a seemingly ridiculous concept and craft a masterpiece. It's a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the importance of trusting the vision of those involved.
So, while we can speculate about the potential of a Schwarzenegger-Fox buddy comedy, it's clear that "Innerspace" found its perfect cast and became a beloved classic in its own right. Sometimes, the road not taken can lead to even greater cinematic achievements.
