Exploring the Enduring Popularity of Tom Cruise’s ‘Risky Business’: A Nostalgic Look Back at Classic ’80s Cinema
As the world of cinema evolves, some movies retain their allure and cult following, and ‘Risky Business’ is one such classic that resonates with viewers to this day. Released in 1983, ‘Risky Business’ starred a young Tom Cruise, who played Joel, a high school senior from a wealthy family, and it quickly became a hit, earning $63.5 million against a budget of $6.2 million.
Now, almost four decades later, we explore the enduring popularity of ‘Risky Business’, what sets it apart from other ’80s movies, and how it continues to inspire Hollywood today.
The Plot of ‘Risky Business’
‘Risky Business’ is set in Chicago, where Joel is left alone at home while his parents are away on vacation. Joel’s boredom leads him to call a call-girl, Lana, played by Rebecca De Mornay. Lana’s arrival leads to a series of events that include pimps, stolen property, and expensive repairs to Joel’s father’s Porsche. As the story unfolds, Joel goes from being a typical teenager to a hustler trying to make the best of the situation he finds himself in.
The film became an iconic coming-of-age story for young people, awakening their sense of adventure and rebellion. The era’s music, fashion, and culture embodied in the film added to its appeal and drove its popularity in the ’80s.
Tom Cruise’s Performance in ‘Risky Business’
‘Risky Business’ made Tom Cruise a household name, and it’s easy to see why. Cruise’s performance as Joel was relatable, sincere, and charismatic, and it set the stage for his subsequent career as a leading Hollywood actor. His other notable performances include ‘Top Gun’, ‘Mission: Impossible’, and ‘A Few Good Men’.
But it was his raw talent and charm in ‘Risky Business’ that gave audiences a glimpse of his potential and created a lasting impression in their hearts.
The Legacy of ‘Risky Business’
Despite being released almost four decades ago, ‘Risky Business’ has aged gracefully, making its mark in American cinema history. The film is a snapshot of ’80s popular culture, from its soundtrack to Tom Cruise’s Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. ‘Risky Business’ continues to inspire contemporary filmmakers, demonstrating how a classic can still hold its relevance and influence in new generations.
In retrospect, ‘Risky Business’ is a nostalgic look back at classic ’80s cinema, and how it defined the entertainment industry in its time. It is a symbol of the past, reminding us of our youthful moments and the experiences that shaped us, and that’s how it continues to thrive today.
Conclusion
‘Risky Business’ is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time, making it an enduring classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Its narrative, combined with Tom Cruise’s outstanding performance, created a movie that embodied the era’s youth culture, providing a vital cultural reference point for the generation.
With its iconic scenes, music, and fashion, ‘Risky Business’ has become a vital artifact of American cultural history, serving as a reminder of the ’80s era and its outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry.
