Unveiling The Magic Behind The "Little Shop Of Horrors" 1986 Cast

The 1986 film adaptation of "Little Shop of Horrors" is a beloved cult classic that continues to captivate audiences with its quirky blend of comedy, horror, and musical elements. Directed by Frank Oz, the movie features a stellar cast that brought to life the eccentric characters from the off-Broadway musical. The film's success owes much to the performances of its talented ensemble, whose chemistry and charisma remain as enchanting today as they were upon the movie's release.

Set against the backdrop of a struggling floral shop in a rundown urban neighborhood, the story follows the hapless protagonist, Seymour Krelborn, as he discovers a strange and exotic plant with an unusual craving for human blood. The plant, named Audrey II, grows to monstrous proportions and demands more than Seymour is willing to give. The comedic and often dark storyline is punctuated by catchy musical numbers, adding to the film's enduring appeal. The cast's ability to balance humor with horror is a testament to their versatility and talent.

The film's ensemble cast, including Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, and Levi Stubbs, each brought their own unique flair to their roles. Their performances not only enhanced the film's narrative but also contributed to its iconic status in the realm of musical cinema. This article delves into the biographies, careers, and personal lives of the "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast, exploring how their individual talents and collective synergy created a cinematic masterpiece that remains celebrated decades later.

Table of Contents

• Biography of the Main Cast
• Rick Moranis as Seymour Krelborn
• Ellen Greene as Audrey
• Vincent Gardenia as Mr. Mushnik
• Steve Martin as Orin Scrivello
• Levi Stubbs as Audrey II
• Supporting Cast and Their Contributions
• The Impact of the Cast on the Film's Success
• The Legacy of "Little Shop of Horrors"
• Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Cast Interactions
• Critical Reception and Awards
• Trivia and Little-Known Facts About the Cast
• Fan Following and Merchandise
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Biography of the Main Cast

The "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast is made up of a talented ensemble of actors, each of whom brought their own unique flair to the film. The main cast consists of Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, and Levi Stubbs. These individuals not only portrayed their characters with charisma and charm but also contributed significantly to the film's enduring popularity. In this section, we explore the biographies of the principal actors, delving into their early lives, careers, and the roles they played in "Little Shop of Horrors."

Rick Moranis as Seymour Krelborn

Rick Moranis was born on April 18, 1953, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He began his career as a radio DJ before breaking into television and film. Moranis is best known for his roles in comedies such as "Ghostbusters," "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids," and "Spaceballs." In "Little Shop of Horrors," he played the role of Seymour Krelborn, the timid and lovable protagonist who discovers the carnivorous plant, Audrey II. Moranis's comedic timing and endearing portrayal of Seymour made him a standout in the film.

Ellen Greene as Audrey

Ellen Greene was born on February 22, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York. She is an accomplished actress and singer with a background in theatre. Greene's role as Audrey, the sweet and vulnerable love interest of Seymour, was reprised from her original stage performance. Her powerful and soulful rendition of "Suddenly, Seymour" remains one of the film's most memorable musical moments. Greene's portrayal of Audrey showcased her ability to blend humor with vulnerability, making the character both endearing and relatable.

Vincent Gardenia as Mr. Mushnik

Vincent Gardenia, born on January 7, 1920, in Naples, Italy, was a seasoned actor known for his work in both film and theatre. He played the role of Mr. Mushnik, the grumpy yet endearing owner of the flower shop where Seymour works. Gardenia's performance added a layer of comedic relief to the film, and his interactions with the other characters helped to create a rich and dynamic ensemble.

Steve Martin as Orin Scrivello

Steve Martin, born on August 14, 1945, in Waco, Texas, is a renowned comedian, actor, and writer. In "Little Shop of Horrors," he portrayed the sadistic dentist, Orin Scrivello, with his signature comedic flair. Martin's performance as the eccentric and villainous dentist was both hilarious and terrifying, adding a unique and memorable dimension to the film.

Levi Stubbs as Audrey II

Levi Stubbs, born on June 6, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, was the lead vocalist of the legendary Motown group, The Four Tops. In "Little Shop of Horrors," he provided the voice for Audrey II, the carnivorous plant with a taste for human blood. Stubbs's powerful and soulful voice brought the character of Audrey II to life, adding a musical and menacing presence to the film.

Supporting Cast and Their Contributions

In addition to the principal cast, "Little Shop of Horrors" featured a talented supporting cast that added depth and dimension to the film. These actors, though not in central roles, played pivotal parts in the film's narrative and contributed to its overall success. Among them were Jim Belushi, John Candy, and Bill Murray, each of whom brought their own comedic flair to the film.

Jim Belushi, a well-known actor and comedian, appeared as Patrick Martin, a character who seeks to commercialize Audrey II. His brief but memorable appearance added a layer of satire to the film's storyline. John Candy, another accomplished comedian, played the role of Wink Wilkinson, a frantic and over-the-top radio show host. Candy's performance provided a comedic interlude that complemented the film's overall tone.

Bill Murray, famous for his roles in "Ghostbusters" and "Groundhog Day," played Arthur Denton, a masochistic patient of Orin Scrivello. Murray's role, though small, was a comedic highlight of the film, and his interactions with Steve Martin's character were both hilarious and unsettling. The supporting cast's contributions, though less prominent, were integral to the film's comedic and narrative success.

The Impact of the Cast on the Film's Success

The "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast played a crucial role in the film's success, bringing a unique blend of talent and charisma to the screen. Their ability to balance the film's comedic and horror elements was instrumental in creating a memorable and engaging cinematic experience. Each actor's performance contributed to the film's overall tone, from Rick Moranis's endearing portrayal of Seymour to Steve Martin's hilarious yet terrifying Orin Scrivello.

The chemistry between the cast members was evident throughout the film, adding authenticity and depth to the characters' interactions. Ellen Greene's chemistry with Rick Moranis, in particular, was a highlight of the film, making the romantic subplot both believable and heartwarming. The cast's ability to portray their characters with depth and nuance was a testament to their talent and versatility.

The film's success can also be attributed to the unique blend of musical, comedic, and horror elements, which the cast skillfully navigated. Their performances brought the film's quirky and eccentric storyline to life, resulting in a cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The Legacy of "Little Shop of Horrors"

Since its release, "Little Shop of Horrors" has maintained its status as a beloved cult classic, thanks in large part to the performances of its cast. The film's unique blend of horror, comedy, and musical elements has inspired numerous adaptations and revivals, both on stage and screen. Its memorable characters and catchy musical numbers continue to captivate audiences, ensuring the film's enduring legacy.

The film's impact extends beyond its initial release, with its influence seen in various forms of media and entertainment. The iconic character of Audrey II, in particular, has become a cultural symbol, representing the film's blend of humor and horror. The film's soundtrack, featuring songs like "Suddenly, Seymour" and "Feed Me (Git It)," remains popular among fans and continues to be celebrated for its catchy and memorable tunes.

The legacy of "Little Shop of Horrors" is a testament to the talent and creativity of its cast and crew. Their collective efforts resulted in a film that has stood the test of time, continuing to entertain and inspire audiences across generations.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Cast Interactions

The making of "Little Shop of Horrors" was filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and interactions among the cast and crew. The collaborative atmosphere on set contributed to the film's success, with the cast members often improvising and adding their own unique touches to their performances.

Director Frank Oz, known for his work with the Muppets, brought his expertise in puppetry to the film, particularly in the creation and operation of Audrey II. The plant's complex movements and expressions were achieved through a combination of puppetry and animatronics, requiring a team of puppeteers to bring the character to life. The cast's interactions with Audrey II were both challenging and rewarding, as they navigated the technical demands of the puppetry while delivering their performances.

The camaraderie among the cast members was evident both on and off screen, with many of them forming lasting friendships during the production. Steve Martin and Bill Murray, both known for their comedic talents, often improvised their scenes together, resulting in some of the film's most memorable moments. These behind-the-scenes interactions added to the film's dynamic energy and contributed to its enduring appeal.

Critical Reception and Awards

Upon its release, "Little Shop of Horrors" received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, praising its unique blend of humor, horror, and music. The film was lauded for its innovative use of puppetry and special effects, as well as its talented cast. Critics highlighted the performances of Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Steve Martin, noting their ability to bring depth and humor to their roles.

The film's critical success was further solidified by its numerous award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects. The film also received nominations for its musical score and original song, "Mean Green Mother from Outer Space." While it did not win any major awards, the film's nominations were a testament to its creative achievements and the talent of its cast and crew.

The positive reception of "Little Shop of Horrors" contributed to its status as a cult classic, with the film continuing to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. Its influence can be seen in subsequent musical films and adaptations, cementing its place in cinematic history.

Trivia and Little-Known Facts About the Cast

The "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast is filled with intriguing trivia and little-known facts that add to the film's mystique. For instance, Rick Moranis was initially hesitant to take on the role of Seymour, as he was primarily known for his comedic work. However, his performance as the endearing protagonist became one of his most memorable roles.

Ellen Greene's portrayal of Audrey was reprised from her original stage performance in the off-Broadway production of "Little Shop of Horrors." Her powerful vocals and emotional depth brought authenticity to the film's adaptation, making her performance a standout.

Steve Martin's role as Orin Scrivello, the sadistic dentist, was inspired by Elvis Presley, with Martin incorporating elements of Presley's persona into his performance. His rendition of the song "Dentist!" showcased both his comedic and musical talents, making it a highlight of the film.

Levi Stubbs, the voice of Audrey II, was a member of the iconic Motown group, The Four Tops. His soulful voice added a unique and menacing presence to the character, making Audrey II one of the film's most memorable antagonists.

These fascinating facts and anecdotes about the cast add to the film's legacy, illustrating the talent and creativity that went into its production.

Fan Following and Merchandise

The enduring popularity of "Little Shop of Horrors" is evident through its dedicated fan base and the wide array of merchandise associated with the film. Fans of the movie continue to celebrate its unique blend of horror, comedy, and music, with many participating in cosplay and fan conventions dedicated to the film.

The film's soundtrack, featuring iconic songs like "Suddenly, Seymour" and "Feed Me (Git It)," remains a favorite among fans and has been re-released in various formats over the years. The catchy and memorable tunes continue to resonate with audiences, contributing to the film's lasting appeal.

Merchandise related to "Little Shop of Horrors" includes everything from clothing and accessories to collectible figures and memorabilia. The character of Audrey II, in particular, has become a popular cultural symbol, with various products featuring the carnivorous plant available for fans to enjoy.

The film's devoted fan following and extensive merchandise offerings are a testament to its enduring impact and the continued love and appreciation for the "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who played the role of Seymour Krelborn in "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986?

Rick Moranis played the role of Seymour Krelborn in the 1986 film adaptation of "Little Shop of Horrors."

2. What is the significance of Audrey II in the film?

Audrey II is a carnivorous plant that becomes the central antagonist in "Little Shop of Horrors." It represents the darker themes of greed and ambition, as it grows and demands more from Seymour, ultimately leading to chaos.

3. Did the cast perform their own singing in the film?

Yes, the cast performed their own singing in the film. Ellen Greene, in particular, reprised her role from the stage production, showcasing her powerful vocals in songs like "Suddenly, Seymour."

4. Was "Little Shop of Horrors" based on a stage production?

Yes, "Little Shop of Horrors" was originally a stage musical that premiered off-Broadway in 1982. The 1986 film adaptation was based on this stage production.

5. What awards did "Little Shop of Horrors" receive?

The film received several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects. It was also nominated for its musical score and original song, "Mean Green Mother from Outer Space."

6. What makes "Little Shop of Horrors" a cult classic?

"Little Shop of Horrors" is considered a cult classic due to its unique blend of horror, comedy, and musical elements, as well as its memorable characters and catchy soundtrack. The film's enduring popularity and dedicated fan base contribute to its cult status.

Conclusion

The "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast played a pivotal role in the film's success, bringing a unique blend of talent, charisma, and creativity to the screen. Their performances, along with the film's innovative blend of horror, comedy, and music, have cemented its status as a beloved cult classic. The film's legacy continues to thrive through its dedicated fan base, enduring popularity, and influence on subsequent adaptations and productions.

The cast's ability to balance humor with horror, along with their memorable performances, has ensured that "Little Shop of Horrors" remains a cherished part of cinematic history. As audiences continue to celebrate and revisit the film, its impact and legacy endure, a testament to the talent and creativity of the "Little Shop of Horrors" 1986 cast.

For those interested in exploring more about the film and its cultural impact, additional resources and insights can be found through various fan sites and film analysis articles. "Little Shop of Horrors" continues to be a source of inspiration and entertainment, captivating new generations of fans and reaffirming its place as an iconic piece of musical cinema.