The David Lynch Classic Was Released On This Day In 1986
Whether you’re talking about cult film or just film in general, David Lynch is one of those directors that’s just impossible to ignore. For those familiar with his work, they either leave you with a serious case of introspection or figurative itchy scalp for days.
Today marks the release of arguably his most popular and celebrated film, Blue Velvet, (unless you count Dune, which we don’t).
The film was a perfect mixture of film noir, modern mystery, and arthouse feature. It tells the tale of Jeffrey Beaumont, who happens to stumble upon a severed ear. Like any good samaritan, he decides to take it to the police. Like virtually no one else, he decides to solve the crime on his own. From there, the wide-eyed Jeffrey discovers a dark world of sex, violence, and Heineken.
According to Lynch, the idea for the film came to him in the 70’s. He wanted the feel of the film to reflect the Bobby Vinton version of the song “Blue Velvet.” As he put it, he wanted, “the mood that came with that song a mood, a time, and things that were of that time.”
The film was produced by Dino DeLaurentiis, who allowed Lynch complete artistic control and final cut. The stipulation was he would have to take a cut in pay as well as be limited to a $6 million budget. The film came off the heels of Dune, a box office disaster. The production offered Lynch an opportunity to return to form after the big budget sci-fi failed. It was a much-needed esteem boost for the director.
The final rough cut of the film was over four hours long. Although Lynch was given final cut, DeLaurentiis’ agreement required a two-hour long film, so the director was forced to cut the film. The MPAA also required cuts to the film due to its violence. You can find some of the original footage on the 2011 Blu-ray special edition release of the film.
Want to hear our take on this David Lynch classic? Hear our review by clicking here!
