In 1985, “Perfect” seemed poised to be a success. With John Travolta and Jamie Lee Curtis at the peak of their careers and a $20 million budget, what could possibly go wrong? As it turned out, everything.
Directed by James Bridges, the film followed journalist Adam Lawrence (Travolta) as he investigates fitness clubs, which led him to aerobics instructor Jessie Wilson (Curtis). Instead of being a hit, the film became one of Hollywood’s biggest flops, grossing only $12.9 million and earning multiple Golden Raspberry Award nominations.
Critics derided the film’s awkward tone, exaggerated aerobic sequences, and what some called “weirdly gay” tone. The film’s infamous gym scenes, characterized by tight shorts and exaggerated pelvic thrusts, were more suggestive than intended—something Curtis later admitted disappointed her. She felt the sequences went too far and seemed more exploitative than artistic.
Travolta, once a Hollywood star, experienced a career setback after “Perfect,” leading to a brief hiatus. Curtis, although iconic in the role, struggled with the oversexualization of Hollywood. Despite the criticism, she trained intensively for the role and even lost 4.5 kg due to the film’s rigorous workout regimen.
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The production was chaotic and took 140 days instead of 81. For authenticity, a scale replica of the Rolling Stone offices was built, further straining the bloated budget. Rolling Stone founder Jann Wenner even played Travolta’s editor, lending a touch of realism to the film’s journalistic portrayal.
Despite its failure, “Perfect” has since achieved cult status. Quentin Tarantino even defended the film, calling Curtis’s performance underrated. In a nod to the film’s bizarre legacy, Curtis humorously recreated the aerobics scene from “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, proving that the scene’s exuberant energy remains unforgettable even decades later.
In retrospect, “Perfect” may not have been a cinematic triumph, but its legacy as an unintentionally funny artifact of the 80s is undeniable.