Risky Business, released in theaters on August 5, 1983, is a landmark teen comedy that defined a generation and catapulted Tom Cruise into superstardom. Directed by Paul Brickman, the film masterfully blends satire, romance, and a dose of youthful rebellion, offering a witty and stylish commentary on American consumerism and the pursuit of freedom. Its legacy is etched into pop culture history, from the iconic dance scene in a dress shirt and socks to its sharp critique of the American dream.
The plot centers on Joel Goodsen (Cruise), a straight-laced, ambitious high school senior in Chicago’s affluent suburbs. With his parents out of town, Joel is left with the house to himself and a strict set of rules.
However, his friends, particularly Miles (Curtis Armstrong), convince him to “let loose.”
A fateful phone call leads Joel to Lana (Rebecca De Mornay), a street-smart and alluring prostitute. What begins as a single, risky encounter spirals into a series of increasingly chaotic events.
As Joel’s misadventures grow, he accidentally drives his father’s Porsche into Lake Michigan and is forced to figure out a way to pay for the damages. With Lana’s help, he turns his parents’ house into a brothel for a single, wildly successful night.
Joe Pantoliano is menacing as Guido the pimp.
Richard Masur, Nicholas Pryor, Kevin Anderson and Bronson Pinchot round out the cast.
The film beautifully captures the naive exhilaration of youthful freedom and the anxiety of impending adulthood.
Tom Cruise in Risky Business (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Risky Business
Risky Business grossed $4.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing third at the box office.
The film would gross $63.5 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film four out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The film’s legacy is immense. It’s a key cinematic snapshot of the 1980s, not just for its fashion and soundtrack—which prominently features Tangerine Dream—but for its subversive take on the coming-of-age narrative.
Risky Business is less about losing one’s virginity and more about a young man finding his voice and learning to take control of his own life, even if it means breaking all the rules. It stands as a testament to Cruise’s charismatic talent and a reminder that true risk often leads to the greatest rewards.
