Jeff Goldblum's 1985 Thriller 'Into the Night' a Box Office Bomb with Star Cameos

What Happened

The 1985 neo-noir film 'Into the Night,' starring Jeff Goldblum, featured a notable array of Hollywood cameos alongside its main cast. The film, directed by John Landis, saw Goldblum portraying a depressed engineer whose life unravels after discovering his wife's infidelity. His subsequent journey leads him to encounter a jewel thief, played by Michelle Pfeiffer.

Background

John Landis directed 'Into the Night' three years after a fatal on-set accident during the production of 'Twilight Zone: The Movie.' The film showcased Landis's ability to attract top talent, a skill that allowed him to continue working despite past controversies. Despite its impressive cast, the film industry was highly supportive of Landis at the time.

Key Facts

• 'Into the Night' was released in 1985 and directed by John Landis.
• Jeff Goldblum stars as Ed Okin, a depressed engineer who cannot sleep.
• Michelle Pfeiffer plays a jewel thief who becomes involved with Okin.
• The film features significant cameos from figures such as David Bowie, Jim Henson, David Cronenberg, and Amy Heckerling, among others.
• 'Into the Night' grossed $7.5 million against an $8 million budget, making it a financial failure.
• The film received predominantly negative reviews from critics, including Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert.

Why It Matters

Despite its failure, 'Into the Night' is remembered for its unexpected cameos and performances from actors like Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Pfeiffer. The film's financial and critical reception contrasted with director John Landis's continued commercial viability at the time, illustrated by his subsequent 1985 comedy 'Spies Like Us.'