Making Mr. Right (1987): Inside Susan Seidelman and John Malkovich's Cult Sci-Fi Android Rom-Com - The 80s Movie Podcast

Making Mr. Right (1987): Inside Susan Seidelman and John Malkovich's Cult Sci-Fi Android Rom-Com - The 80s Movie Podcast

Author: Edward Havens May 12, 2025 Duration: 10:15
This week on The 80s Movie Podcast, host Edward Havens continues his retrospective on the films of director Susan Seidelman with a deep dive into her quirky 1987 sci-fi romantic comedy, Making Mr. Right. Following her massive breakout success with Desperately Seeking Susan, Seidelman used her three-picture deal with Orion Pictures to craft this unique cinematic blend of classic screwball romance, retro-futuristic satire, and 1980s workplace comedy. The episode explores the film’s production, detailing how Seidelman transformed the screenplay into a Frankenstein-inspired comedy and the gamble of casting John Malkovich in a dual role. Alongside Malkovich, we look at the incredible ensemble cast, including standout performances from Ann Magnuson, Laurie Metcalf, and Hart Bochner, who navigate this highly colorful, neon-soaked production. Finally, we analyze the vibrant Miami setting that gave the film its signature aesthetic and break down why this initial box-office disappointment eventually developed into a beloved cult classic. We close out the discussion by evaluating where this offbeat sci-fi feature stands in the larger legacy of 1980s feminist cinema and Seidelman’s overall filmography.

Edward Havens, a film historian and former critic, hosts The 80s Movie Podcast, offering a deep and curated exploration of cinema from that decade. This isn't just a surface-level recap of famous blockbusters, though those certainly have their place. Instead, the podcast serves as a guided tour through the entire ecosystem of 1980s filmmaking. Listeners will hear episodes dedicated to the obscure distribution companies that once shaped what played in theaters, and rediscover movies that have slipped from popular memory. The conversation naturally expands to profile the iconic stars and visionary directors who defined the era's unique aesthetic. Havens draws on his background to provide context and insight, treating each film as a piece of a larger historical tapestry. Tuning into this podcast means gaining a richer understanding of why the 1980s remain such a distinct and influential period in visual storytelling. It’s for anyone who loves the texture of film history, from the forgotten gems to the cultural touchstones, all examined with a knowledgeable and engaging perspective. The show carefully balances nostalgia with revelation, ensuring every episode reveals something new about a seemingly familiar landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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