Cast
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James Spader
as Morgan Hiller
Kim Richards
as Frankie Croyden
Paul Mones
as Nick Hauser
Matt Clark
as Stuart Hiller
Claudette Nevins
as Page Hiller
Olivia Barash
as Ronnie
Robert Downey Jr.
as Jimmy Parker
Panchito Gómez
as Mickey
Michael Wyle
as Eddie
Catya Sassoon
as Feather
Francis X. McCarthy
as Man at Bus Stop
Art Evans
as Security Guard
Herb Mitchell
as Mr. Russell
Ceil Cabot
as Secretary
Donald Fullilove
as Howard
Crew
Director
- Fritz Kiersch
Producer
- Donald P. Borchers
Reviews
dennyjt
1980s were a great time for young actors in Hollywood. So many performers were given vehicles to launch their careers, even if not always of top material, it got them visibility. This was the first lead for James Spader, as the moody new kid in school, in a situation striaght out of "Rebel Without A Cause". The rought boys pick on him, although he is instantly smitten by temptress Kim Richards, who has the longest hair in film history. Another misfit, Robert Downey Jr. befriends him, showing with a comic charm that would become a trait in later years. The movie has a feel that these are kids play acting as adults, but "Rebel" did that that as well. The fashions are on-trend, the frequent music interludes are new wave cool. This is a fun watch, if unremarkable.
Jul 8, 2022
Wuchak
**_A troubled new kid on the block has to dance and fight for a girl, not to mention respect_**
A prep from Connecticut (James Spader) starts his senior year at a public school in Los Angeles after his father loses his company and scales down in SoCal. He sets his eyes on the beautiful girlfriend (Kim Richards) of a gang leader (Paul Mones) and all hell breaks loose.
"Tuff Turf" (1985) is similar plot-wise to “The Karate Kid” from the year prior, but isn’t as effective because it tries to be too many things. It’s a musical, a coming-of-age drama, a teen comedy, a romance, an art film and a bloody gang flick all rolled into one.
The first half is an amusing musical with pizazz while the second half turns dramatic and violent. In short, it’s a mishmash of “Grease” (1978), “The Warriors” (1979), “Valley Girl” (1983), “Rumble Fish” (1983) and “The Karate Kid.”
I like it, but the finale in the warehouse devolves into larger-than-life surrealness. Still, the music’s great, Spader carries the movie, Robert Downey Jr. is entertaining in an early role and Kim Richards (child actress from the 70s) is jaw-dropping with her stunning hair.
The film runs 1 hour, 51 minutes, and was shot in the Los Angeles area.
GRADE: B-
Feb 27, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Tuff Turf examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Fritz Kiersch brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1985, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Tuff Turf took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2075 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1985, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Tuff Turf shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Joyland, which focuses more on action than character development, Tuff Turf offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Fear of Rain and 4 Kings explore similar territory, Tuff Turf stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 11, 1985
- Runtime: 1h 52m
Where to Watch
