The world of horror cinema is a fascinating one, filled with iconic characters and memorable stories. Among the myriad of slasher films that emerged in the 1980s, one particular behind-the-scenes tale involving a beloved TV icon is both intriguing and somewhat bittersweet. The story revolves around Eve Plumb, the actress who played the iconic Jan Brady on The Brady Bunch, and her near-miss with a leading role in the cult classic slasher film Prom Night. This article delves into the fascinating interplay between television stardom, the allure of horror, and the unpredictable nature of the film industry.
The Rise of Slasher Movies
The success of Halloween in 1978 sparked a wave of slasher films, with studios and producers eager to capitalize on the genre's popularity. The formula was simple: create a deranged killer with a grudge or obsession, and set them loose on a group of unsuspecting teenagers. This led to a deluge of copycat movies in 1980, including the notorious Friday the 13th, which critics like Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert were quick to disparage. As the slasher genre flourished, it became clear that memorable killers were key to building successful franchises.
Jamie Lee Curtis: The Rising Star
Jamie Lee Curtis, already a rising star in the industry due to her family connections, found herself drawn to the horror genre. Despite her potential for serious roles, she opted to star in multiple horror films in 1980, including The Fog, Prom Night, and Terror Train. Two of these were slasher films, and she continued her horror streak with Halloween II and Roadgames the following year. Curtis' willingness to take on these roles was driven by her understanding of the industry's fickleness, as she once stated, 'You take the jobs that come along and are lucky that you get them.'
The Battle for the Final Girl Role
In the case of Prom Night, the role of the final girl, Kim Hammond, was a coveted position. Jamie Lee Curtis, with her star power and family connections, actively sought out the part, despite her potential for more serious roles. This led to a competition with Eve Plumb, the actress known for her role as Jan Brady on The Brady Bunch. According to producer Peter Simpson and director Paul Lynch, Plumb was initially favored for the role, as they were looking for the 'ultimate virgin, the ultimate victim.' However, Curtis' charismatic audition and her ability to 'sell herself' secured the part, leaving Plumb disappointed.
The Impact of Prom Night
While Prom Night was only a modest financial success and received negative reviews, it did not launch Eve Plumb's movie career. She continued to work steadily in television, appearing in various Brady Bunch reunions and spin-offs. However, her film career did take an interesting turn with appearances in films like I'm Gonna Git You Sucka, Nowhere, and Blue Ruin. Jamie Lee Curtis, on the other hand, solidified her status as a horror icon, becoming the 'ultimate scream queen' and establishing a successful career in the genre.
In conclusion, the story of Eve Plumb and Jamie Lee Curtis showcases the unpredictable nature of the film industry and the impact of personal connections and charisma. It also highlights the enduring appeal of the slasher genre and the enduring legacy of iconic characters like the final girl. This tale is a reminder that sometimes, the line between success and near-miss can be incredibly thin.
