Details
Movie Description
Director Peter Bogdanovich brings the inspirational, true story of Rocky Dennis (Eric Stoltz) to life in MASK. Despite being born with craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, a disease resulting in disfigurement of the bones of the face and head, Rocky is a typical teen: he collects baseball cards, plans to take a Harley through Europe, and excels at school. His devoted, yet substance-abusing mother, Rusty (Cher), along with her warmhearted biker friends, will do anything to ensure that Rocky is allowed to live as normal a life as possible. Rocky's positive outlook and spirit win him friends and supporters wherever he goes--at school, at the hospital, and while working at a camp for the blind, where he finds love with beautiful Diana (Laura Dern). Stoltz is extraordinary as Rocky, instilling him with warmth and verve. The film also features Sam Elliott as Rusty's love interest, Gar, rounding off a uniformly fine cast.
Synopsis
Based on the life of Rocky Dennis, MASK tells the uplifting story of a young man who suffered from a disfiguring congenital condition. The film movingly demonstrates the falsehood inherent in the world of appearances and the true nature of prejudice. Eric Stoltz, Cher, and Sam Elliott give strong, true performances in this winning drama from Peter Bogdanovich (THE LAST PICTURE SHOW).
Film Notes
Theatrical release: January 1, 1985.
The Cannes Film Festival named Cher Best Actress for her performance.
Before MASK's release, director Peter Bogdanovich criticized his producers and Universal Studios for making changes in the film he felt were detrimental, including the elimination of the Bruce Springsteen score. Real-life Rocky Dennis was apparently a huge Springsteen fan, but using The Boss's songs would have been too costly for the low-budget production.
The flm was originally rated R by the MPAA, but won a PG-13 rating on appeal.
Industry Reviews
"...[The film] taps human feelings with a depth rarely felt in films. Beautifully acted and executed..."
Jagr.
"...Stoltz is simply amazing in the variety, the humor and the absolute lack of self-pity with which he draws Rocky..."
Los Angeles Times - Sheila Benson (03/07/1985)
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