There are two fundamental problems with Bright Lights, Big City.

Firstly, Michael J. Fox is a miscast for this movie. While I can appreciate his will to step away from the lovable, at tops maybe a little mischievous boy next door role for a change, Bright Lights, Big City either isn’t the right vehicle for him, or he just didn’t have the chops to do really believable drama at the time.

In Bright Lights, Big City he ends up being that super likeable boy next door – who just happens to snort a ton of cocaine every now and then.

Secondly, despite the heavy dramatic elements, the movie fails to deliver much impact. There are a few exceptions to this – like that scene with Dianne Wiest – but as the end credits roll, one wishes the movie would’ve offered a little bit more substance and meat around the bones.

80s-o-meter: 88%

Total: 71%