Brilliant romantic comedies such as Boomerang are usually reserved for a lazy night on the couch or a throwback movie night. Released over 23 years ago—film lovers are still admiring this cult classic. We watched as an advertising executive and self-professed ‘eleganza’-mack-daddy (Marcus Graham played by Eddie Murphy) gets the tables turned on him when a formidable Jacqueline Broyer played by Robin Givens gives him a taste of his ‘mack-daddy’ ways. Albeit we’ve been watching the film since 1992, there are some hidden facts that may have passed us by over the years. Click continue to learn 15 things about ‘Boomerang’ that you might not have known.
V-Day Films: 15 Things You Didn’t Know About Boomerang
According to the director, Grace Jones (who played Helen Strangé) was involved in designing all of her own costumes and outfits for the film. Of course there is no surprise there. Grace Jones is a creative genius.
The film’s soundtrack featured the classic and massive R&B tune ‘End of the Road’ performed by Boyz II Men and produced by LA. Reid and Babyface. According to Billboard, not only did this cut fuel the band’s popularity but it went on to break even an Elvis Presley record for topping the Billboard singles chart for 13 weeks.
3. The next time you watch Boomerang, pay attention to some of the symbolism that occurs. The Empire State Building shares a scene with Jacqueline and Marcus. While they are standing on a cold New York City street, the building is lit. But once they announce they are breaking up, the lights go out–symbolizing the forthcoming sadness that Marcus will feel. It was editing magic in post-production that made this happen.
4. According to the director, in order to avoid a stiff and corny look, Marcus rarely wore a tie with his business attire. This was an attempt to give the character more swag.
5. The film’s soundtrack served as the big break for a then unknown Toni Braxton (as a solo artist.) Released on December 1, 1992, ‘Love Shoulda Brought You Home’ is Toni Braxton’s first solo single. Her hit solo debut album would follow 7 months later.
6. Marcus’ apartment was actually a well-known real loft in New York City where a lot of commercial shoots were held—it was redesigned to fit Marcus’ personality.
7. The film was going to end when Tyler, Gerard and Marcus settled their differences and hugged on a New York City roof. But the director decided it was better to end the film by wrapping up the relationship between Marcus and Angela.
8. There was nothing fake about Angela’s slap. Marcus really got it.
9. The majority of the movie was filmed in New York City during frigid cold winter months. Despite the weather, the cast bundled up and pressed on.
10. According to the director, some scenes were filmed on 125th street in Harlem while an unrelated march organized by the Nation of Islam was simultaneously happening.
11. The cast and crew were in for a treat when all the comedians were on set. They were so funny and told jokes on and off camera.
12. All of the New Orleans’ scenes were actually shot in Washington D.C.
13. Marcus’ apartment featured a comical painting of his dog Kirby. Hilarious! Who in the world owns a painting (not a picture but a painting) of their dog? Exactly. Comedy.
14. Most of the film was shot at a real location. The office scenes were filmed at the old Univision building in New York.
15. Jazz musician Marcus Miller—who has worked with Miles Davis and Luther Vandross did the score for Boomerang. Miller has also done the score for other 90’s classics such as House Party, Above the Rim and A Low Down Dirty Shame to name a few.
