Actor Christopher Lloyd appearing in the Valley
Actor Christopher Lloyd has had an illustrious career that spans over four decades and more than 200 roles. He is best known for playing eccentric scientist Dr. Emmett Brown in the “Back to the Future” trilogy.
Lloyd will make a special appearance at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix on July 14.
After a screening of “Back of the Future,” Lloyd will share behindthe-scenes stories about the making of the film, driving the DeLorean and working with Michael J. Fox. He’ll also answer questions from the audience. VIP ticket holders can have their picture taken with the actor.
Lloyd never anticipated the original film would become the cult classic that it has.
“I was hoping it would be a successful opening and have a good run. That’s
what I hope on any project. I think anybody involved is awed by its continued popularity,” Lloyd said.
He said the 1985 film still holds relevance for audiences today.
“It’s not aged or stuck in a particular period,” Lloyd said. “The DeLorean, for example, looks just as futuristic as it did 30 years ago, and the writing doesn’t stick to any moment in time. A big appeal of the film is I think everybody has thoughts about going to the future or going somewhere in the past.”
Lloyd said that as a creative person, he identifies with his character in the film.
“I think the thing that really excited me about it was Doc Brown’s excitement about discovery, about trying to come up with a solution to universal problems or puzzles, a little bit like Einstein,” he said.
Lloyd expects that the screening and Q&A will get new viewers excited about the film.
“I just hope that people come out, see the film and bring their families along. Maybe if they have children who haven’t seen the film yet, it might be an exciting event for them,” he said.
Along with Doc Brown, Lloyd has played Uncle Fester in “The Addams Family” and “Addams Family Values,” Judge Doom in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” Rev. Jim Ignatowski on “Taxi” and Taber in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.”
Lloyd said he has built a long-lasting career by being open to different roles.
“I would say (the key to my success is) a lot of luck, a lot of being ready when something comes up. I’m not too picky. I’m not waiting, sitting around for the ideal and perfect role. I like to work, so I try to make the best of whatever opportunity comes up,” Lloyd said.
He recently starred alongside William Shatner in “Senior Moment” and alongside Christopher Plummer in “Boundaries.”
The 79-year-old said his continued passion for acting pushes him to continue.
“As long as I can keep remembering the lines and getting to the locations, I want to keep working as long as I can. I love it,” Lloyd said.