Blank Check with Griffin & David - Episode: "Look Who's Talking with Hillary Busis" (May 18, 2025)
Introduction
In this episode of Blank Check with Griffin & David, hosts Griffin Newman and David Sims, along with guest Hillary Busis, delve into the iconic 1989 film "Look Who's Talking." Produced by Ben Hosley, the podcast explores Amy Heckerling's directorial efforts, focusing on how the success of "Look Who's Talking" provided her with the creative freedom, or "blank check," to pursue passion projects within Hollywood.
Plot Overview
"Look Who's Talking" revolves around Molly Jensen (played by Kirsty Alley), a single working mother navigating the complexities of parenthood in New York City. The film introduces a unique twist: the inner monologue of Molly's baby, Mikey, voiced by Bruce Willis, providing comedic and heartfelt insights into the challenges of raising a child.
Notable Quote:
Griffin Newman [20:22]: "But hey, 96 minutes of baby's talking. How bad could this be?"
Director's Background: Amy Heckerling
Amy Heckerling, renowned for directing "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and "Clueless," took a significant creative leap with "Look Who's Talking." Coming off mixed successes, Heckerling aimed to create a story that balanced commercial appeal with personal resonance.
Notable Quote:
David Sims [23:12]: "This is a great comeback movie in the lineage of what we talk about, where she was basically coming off two things that didn't help her career and was like, I need a movie that's a can't miss hit."
Cast and Characters
- John Travolta as John Travolta's character, a charming yet somewhat erratic cab driver who becomes entwined in Molly's life.
- Kirsty Alley as Molly Jensen, a professional woman striving to balance her career and newfound motherhood.
- Bruce Willis as Mikey's voice, providing the baby's internal thoughts.
- Olympia Dukakis as Molly's Mother, adding depth and humor to the family dynamics.
- Mel Brooks as Mr. Toilet, a memorable and quirky character that adds to the film's unique charm.
Notable Quote:
David Sims [76:31]: "George Seagull makes a joke where I think he says 10 bucks an hour. Where he's like, what is she paying you? I'll double it."
Production Details
With a modest budget of $8 million, Heckerling strategically allocated funds, dedicating a significant portion to securing star power from Travolta and Alley. The film's marketing hinged on the intriguing poster featuring a giant baby head, effectively conveying the movie's central conceit.
Notable Quote:
Griffin Newman [46:45]: "It's an $8 million movie that made $300 million worldwide."
The production employed innovative techniques for the time, utilizing puppeteers and early visual effects to bring Mikey's character to life. The decision to have multiple babies portray Mikey ensured a seamless portrayal of the character's growth throughout the film.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
"Look Who's Talking" emerged as a box office sensation, topping charts for five consecutive weeks and grossing $300 million worldwide. Its success not only revitalized John Travolta's career but also solidified Amy Heckerling's reputation as a versatile director capable of blending humor with heartfelt storytelling.
The film spawned two sequels, "Look Who's Talking Too" and "Look Who's Talking Now," though they did not achieve the same level of acclaim. Nevertheless, the original remains a beloved classic, remembered for its unique premise and charismatic performances.
Notable Quote:
David Sims [43:22]: "This is what I found so fascinating is this is still an era of movie marketing where you can trick people into going to see a movie, giving them an incomplete picture."
Behind the Scenes and Personal Insights
Throughout the episode, Griffin and David share anecdotes about their personal experiences with the film, reflecting on its nostalgic value and the performances that stood out. Guest Hillary Busis contributes by recounting moments from her pregnancy and how certain scenes resonated with her own experiences as a mother.
Notable Quote:
Hillary Busis [81:24]: "I've been present for the delivery of three babies. But two. Two deliveries. Can you just get Demerol injected into an IV when you're in labor? I don't think so."
Conclusion
In "Look Who's Talking," Amy Heckerling masterfully crafted a film that balanced commercial appeal with personal storytelling, leveraging star power and innovative concepts to create a lasting cinematic impact. Griffin, David, and Hillary's discussion not only highlights the film's successes but also offers a critical examination of its narrative choices and legacy within Hollywood.
Notable Quote:
Griffin Newman [156:16]: "But that's what I'm saying, it's about a woman having a baby and all her issues. Nobody's gonna be mad after they watch this. It's fine."
Final Thoughts
"Look Who's Talking" serves as a testament to the power of creative storytelling backed by strategic production and marketing. Amy Heckerling's ability to turn a simple premise into a beloved classic underscores the essence of the Blank Check series: exploring how early successes allow auteurs to craft unique and memorable films.
Notable Quotes Summary
- Griffin Newman [20:22]: "But hey, 96 minutes of baby's talking. How bad could this be?"
- David Sims [23:12]: "This is a great comeback movie in the lineage of what we talk about, where she was basically coming off two things that didn't help her career and was like, I need a movie that's a can't miss hit."
- Griffin Newman [46:45]: "It's an $8 million movie that made $300 million worldwide."
- David Sims [43:22]: "This is what I found so fascinating is this is still an era of movie marketing where you can trick people into going to see a movie, giving them an incomplete picture."
- Hillary Busis [81:24]: "I've been present for the delivery of three babies. But two. Two deliveries. Can you just get Demerol injected into an IV when you're in labor? I don't think so."
- Griffin Newman [156:16]: "But that's what I'm saying, it's about a woman having a baby and all her issues. Nobody's gonna be mad after they watch this. It's fine."
Listeners are encouraged to watch "Look Who's Talking" to experience the charm and charisma that made it a standout hit in 1989. For more insights into filmographies and the stories behind the movies, tune in to future episodes of Blank Check with Griffin & David.