When Perfect hit theaters in 1985, it had all the ingredients for success: Hollywood A-listers, a talented director, and a significant budget. Starring John Travolta and Jamie Lee Curtis, the film was expected to be a major hit. However, despite the hype, it struggled to make an impact at the box office and faced mixed reviews. Looking back, it’s fascinating to see why this movie, which seemed destined for greatness, didn’t live up to expectations.
The Expectations Were High
By the mid-1980s, John Travolta was a household name thanks to films like Saturday Night Fever and Grease, while Jamie Lee Curtis had cemented her place as a rising star. With a budget of $20 million and Columbia Pictures backing the project, Perfect was poised for success. The film, directed by James Bridges, was based on a Rolling Stone article about fitness culture, a topic that was gaining mainstream popularity at the time.
Yet, despite its strong foundation, Perfect only earned $12.9 million worldwide and was met with criticism. It was even nominated for several awards that recognized underwhelming performances, including the Golden Raspberry Awards. What went wrong? Let’s break it down.
A Storyline That Struggled to Connect
The film followed Adam Lawrence (John Travolta), a journalist assigned to investigate a businessman accused of illegal activities. However, it was his secondary assignment—covering the rise of fitness clubs—that introduced him to Jessie Wilson (Jamie Lee Curtis), an aerobics instructor who was skeptical of journalists.
While the film attempted to showcase the vibrant fitness scene of the 1980s, many critics felt that it failed to provide a compelling narrative. Instead of diving into the deeper themes of journalism or personal transformation, the film spent a significant amount of time focusing on gym scenes and aerobics routines. This emphasis made it difficult for audiences to engage with the characters on a deeper level.
The Fitness Craze and Its Impact on the Film
During the 1980s, aerobics and fitness clubs were exploding in popularity, and Perfect attempted to capture this cultural movement. However, some critics and audiences felt that the execution leaned too heavily on aesthetics rather than storytelling. The extended gym sequences, complete with fast-paced music and energetic choreography, overshadowed character development and plot progression.
Jamie Lee Curtis, who played the confident and passionate fitness instructor, trained intensively for the role. She later revealed that she lost nearly 10 pounds of muscle during filming due to her rigorous training schedule. Her dedication to authenticity was evident, but the film’s approach to highlighting aerobics left some viewers feeling that it prioritized visuals over substance.
John Travolta’s Perspective on the Film
For John Travolta, Perfect was a project that offered him the chance to reunite with director James Bridges, whom he had previously worked with on Urban Cowboy. Despite the film’s commercial struggles, Travolta has expressed that he has no regrets about taking the role. He viewed the experience as a valuable opportunity to collaborate with talented individuals.
Unfortunately, after Perfect, Travolta took a brief hiatus from major film roles, not returning to the big screen until Look Who’s Talking in 1989. While the film did not have a lasting impact on his career, it marked a transitional period in his journey as an actor.
Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
Filming Perfect was not without its challenges. Initially planned as an 81-day shoot, production extended to 140 days, significantly longer than expected. Jamie Lee Curtis, accustomed to fast-paced productions, humorously commented on how drawn-out the filming process became.
Additionally, to maintain the authenticity of the journalism aspect, a replica of the Rolling Stone magazine office was built on set. This level of detail showcased the effort put into the film, but ultimately, it wasn’t enough to elevate it to the level of a blockbuster hit.
The Real Star of the Movie?
One of the most surprising performances in Perfect came from Jann Wenner, the co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine. Wenner played the role of Mark Roth, the editor of the publication, and his portrayal was praised for its authenticity. His involvement added a layer of realism to the film, even as other aspects struggled to resonate with audiences.
Revisiting Perfect Today
Despite its initial reception, Perfect has gained a following over the years. Some now view it as a snapshot of 1980s culture, with its aerobics sequences and fashion choices serving as a time capsule of the era. Even acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has defended the film, noting that Jamie Lee Curtis delivered a standout performance.
In recent years, Curtis has even revisited her Perfect aerobics routine, playfully recreating it on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. This nostalgic moment reminded audiences of the film’s unique place in pop culture history.
Final Thoughts
While Perfect may not have achieved the success it initially aimed for, it remains an interesting piece of cinema history. It serves as a reminder that even films with the right ingredients can sometimes miss the mark. However, with time, many films find new appreciation, and Perfect is no exception.
What are your thoughts on Perfect? Have you watched it recently? Let us know your take on this 1980s classic!
