John Cusack Reflects on "High Fidelity" in Minneapolis: A Fan’s Dream Come True
Record shops have experienced a remarkable resurgence over the past 25 years, a trend that resonates deeply with fans of “High Fidelity.” This beloved film, featuring the charismatic John Cusack as a record store owner, has maintained its cultural relevance—and so has the actor himself. This was evident on a recent Friday night at the Uptown Theater in Minneapolis, where approximately a thousand fans gathered to hear Cusack’s insights after a special screening of the film.
A Night of Nostalgia and Insight
During an engaging hour-long session, Cusack answered questions and soaked in the admiration of attendees, many of whom shared heartfelt stories about what "High Fidelity," along with other films like “Grosse Pointe Blank” and “Better Off Dead,” meant to them. As a Chicago native, Cusack’s charm radiated through the theater, but interestingly, he revealed his struggle with ranking his films—something his character, Rob Gordon, famously excels at throughout the movie.
The Challenge of Top 5 Lists
“I suck at it,” Cusack confessed as the crowd laughed. “I could never choose a top-5 anything. It depends on my moods.” This candid admission added a personal touch to the evening, contrasting sharply with the analytical, list-making persona of Rob.
Hailing Local Talent
The event, moderated by local DJ and host of The Current’s “Transmission”, Jake Rudh, brought some local flair into the mix. When prompted about his favorite Minneapolis music act, Cusack did not hesitate to praise The Replacements, whose 1983 track “Within Your Reach” has a notable inclusion in another of his iconic films, “Say Anything.” His critiques of music, however, weren’t always glowing.
A Controversial Take on Stevie Wonder
In a light-hearted confession, Cusack shared that he wasn’t particularly fond of “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” “It was a terrible song,” he remarked, adding, “I’ve made some terrible movies, too. It happens. There’s just no way around it.” This candidness, laced with humor, helped endear him even more to fans.
The Creative Process Behind "High Fidelity"
As the evening progressed, Cusack reflected on his role not just as the lead actor but also as the co-screenwriter and co-producer of the film adaptation based on Nick Hornby’s novel. One surprising takeaway was Hornby’s reaction to relocating the story from London to Chicago. “My book is about more than British accents,” he humorously recounted Hornby telling him. This perspective highlighted the creative conversations that transpire behind the scenes of film adaptations.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
As the night wound down, it became clear that both “High Fidelity” and John Cusack have left an indelible mark on their audience. With a blend of humor, humility, and deep appreciation for his craft, Cusack reinforced why he continues to resonate with fans old and new. For those lucky enough to attend this special event, the evening was not just a trip down memory lane but a celebration of a film that continues to inspire and connect people across generations.
For more insights on classic films and actor interviews, check out Rolling Stone and IndieWire.
