In episode 498, I discuss the process of making the film Back to the future The film began during Mercury retrograde and the production experienced major delays, including the firing of the lead actor after 6 weeks of shooting. By examining the film’s challenges and eventual success, we can gain a deeper understanding of what Mercury retrograde really means in astrology.
The story begins with filmmakers Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, who, after years of developing the script, cast Michael J. Fox in the lead role of Marty McFly. With Fox unavailable, they moved forward with another actor, Eric Stoltz. Filming began in late November 1984, just as Mercury was slowing into station retrograde.
Mercury retrogrades are often associated with delays, revisions, and the need to reset things. The first weeks of filming with Stoltz were a vivid example of these themes, as her more serious interpretation of the role clashed with the directors’ comedic vision. This led to the difficult and highly unusual decision to recast the lead role midway through production.
the story of Back to the futureThe creation of, with its delays and necessary repetitions, serves as a powerfully realistic example of Mercury retrograde in action, teaching us that sometimes we must return to our past to create a better future.
Join me as I break down the astrological history of these events and discuss the broader lessons for managing our Mercury retrograde periods.
Time signs
00:00:00 Intro: Back to the Future and Mercury Retrograde
00:00:28 What does Mercury retrograde mean in astrology?
00:00:52 The film’s origin story
00:02:11 Failed attempt to cast Michael J. Fox
00:03:40 Eric Stoltz plays Marty McFly
00:04:36 Astrology at the time of filming
00:07:23 Shooting with Eric Stoltz is not working
00:09:20 The fateful decision to restructure the lead
00:09:51 Approaching Michael J. Fox during Christmas
00:11:47 Astrology Chart of Recasting
00:13:20 Michael J. Fox birth chart transits
00:16:15 Stoltz fired, Fox begins filming
00:19:03 Michael J. Fox’s challenging shooting schedule
00:23:36 Production delays and eventual success
00:25:30 Basic lessons about Mercury retrograde
00:28:27 Venus retrograde conjunction with Star Wars
00:33:23 Permanent impact on actors
00:34:54 40th anniversary repeats 1985 astrology
00:37:37 Final conclusions
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