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John Cusack Recasts ‘Say AnythingBoombox Moment as Defiance, Says He Pushed for Script Changes

He described the rethink at a Nov. 30 New York screening as the key to making the moment work.

Overview

  • Cusack said he initially "didn't know how to do" the scene because he feared it would play as pleading or subservient, asking, "Guys have pride, right?"
  • He explained that viewing Lloyd Dobler as defiant helped him unlock the performance, suggesting the character sensed outside pressure on Diane.
  • The actor said he agreed to the role on the condition that Cameron Crowe allow changes that made Lloyd "choosing to be optimistic" and gave him darker dimensions.
  • Cusack made the remarks during a Nov. 30 screening at Kings Theatre in New York City, which outlets reported on Dec. 27.
  • Coverage notes the boombox image set to Peter Gabriel’s "In Your Eyes" remains a lasting touchstone in romantic cinema.