If you thought the iconic 1985 blockbuster "Back to the Future" had the most profound impact on Lea Thompson's life, you might be surprised. In a candid interview with Closer Weekly, Lea reveals that it was actually the romantic comedy "Some Kind of Wonderful" that changed her life forever. "I’d have to say Some Kind of Wonderful did, because I met my husband, Howard Deutch, the film's director," she shares. "Our 29th wedding anniversary is on July 23, and he gave me my two amazing kids." Now, Lea is stepping into the spotlight once again, this time as a director, with her daughters by her side.
The film The Year of Spectacular Men, set to release on June 15, marks Lea's debut as a feature film director. Written by her daughter Madelyn Deutch, the movie stars her youngest daughter, Zoey Deutch. "We worked tirelessly for four years on this project. Even though it’s a collaborative effort with Maddie and Zoey, it’s the first thing I’ve ever created entirely on my own," Lea explains. In this heartfelt interview with Closer, Lea dives deep into her marriage, overcoming her parents' divorce, and the unforgettable moments of her career, including working alongside Tom Cruise. Keep scrolling to read the full interview with Lea!
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How Did The Year of Spectacular Men Come to Life?
With two more films, Little Women and Sierra Burgess Is a Loser, set to release soon, The Year of Spectacular Men holds a special place in Lea's heart. It all began when Madelyn returned from college and found her younger sister Zoey thriving as a movie star. "She had been through a series of terrible relationships and jokingly said, 'Wow, it’s been my year of spectacular men.' I encouraged her, 'Write a movie about it!'" Lea recalls with a smile.
What Made Directing This Film Unique?
Lea has been directing TV movies and shows for over a decade, but this experience was unlike anything she's done before. "I’ve always been someone who interprets others' visions—dancing, singing other people’s songs, or bringing someone else’s script to life. But this time, I was there from the very beginning, inspiring the story and providing creative input every step of the way," she explains.
View this post on Instagramit’s my mom’s birthday! happy birthday, mom! @lea_thompson 👸
What Was It Like Working With Your Daughters?
Lea shares how much she learned about Maddie and Zoey during the filmmaking process. "They’re both incredibly hardworking and talented. Watching them grow into their roles as professionals has been such a joy. It’s been wonderful to see them blossom into full-fledged women, and I couldn’t be prouder," she says.
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Tom Cruise: A Gentleman on Set
Lea reminisces about working with Tom Cruise on All the Right Moves. "There’s a funny story about how generous he was. The script initially required me to show my breasts twice. I didn’t audition because I wasn’t comfortable with that, but I ended up getting the part. Tom managed to convince the producers to cut one scene, and for the other, he insisted, 'If she has to be naked, I’ll be naked too.' That’s pretty badass, right? I’ve always been grateful to him for standing up for me," Lea recalls fondly.
Michael J. Fox: A Lifelong Friend
Lea's memories of working with Michael J. Fox on Back to the Future continue to this day. "We’ve done panels together over the years, and he’s as funny, clever, and self-deprecating as ever. Back then, I didn’t realize how big a star he was. We shared a trailer on set, and when neighborhood girls surrounded it, I realized, 'Wow, he really is famous!'"
