## The Surprisingly Close Call: How “Back to the Future” Almost had a Very Different title (and More Deleted Scenes!)
Global Pictures
“Back to the Future” is a cinematic landmark, a film woven into the fabric of pop culture. But did you know it’s success hinged on avoiding a truly… questionable title? The story behind the film’s near-miss with “Spaceman from Pluto” – and the fascinating deleted scenes that almost made the cut - reveals a lot about the creative process and the instincts of those involved.
### A Title That Could Have Changed Everything
Sidney Sheinberg, the long-time head of Universal’s film and television departments, initially suggested “Spaceman from Pluto” as the film’s title. Considering he was instrumental in giving a young Steven Spielberg his start at the company, it’s understandable why those around him didn’t challenge the idea too forcefully. Great films don’t always have great titles, but thankfully, cooler heads prevailed.
It’s easy to see why we’re all grateful for that decision. “Spaceman from Pluto“ wouldn’t just have been a bad title; it would have fundamentally misrepresented the film’s core story.
### The Comic Book Clue & Misremembered Details
The origin of the suggestion stems from a prop within the film itself. You might recall a frightened child in 1955 holding up a comic book after discovering the DeLorean. Though,the comic doesn’t actually read “Spaceman From Pluto.” It says “Space Zombies From Pluto.”
Even a simple “Spaceman” wouldn’t have captured the essence of the film. It’s designed to feel like the kind of low-budget sci-fi movie someone *within* the world of “Back to the Future” would create, reflecting the era’s captivation with space and aliens.### Marty’s Hazmat Suit & Playing on George McFly‘s Nerdiness
Marty’s yellow hazmat suit plays a surprisingly small, yet crucial, role. It’s primarily used to leverage his appearance and play into George McFly’s (Crispin Glover) love of science fiction. Remember the scene where Marty wakes his father in the middle of the night?
Marty brilliantly uses this to his advantage, launching into a hilarious series of sci-fi references. He declares himself an extra-terrestrial from Vulcan named Darth Vader, and it’s all it takes to nudge George toward asking Lorraine baines (Lea Thompson) to the dance.
### Deleted Scenes: A Longer Night with George McFly
Originally, this scene was even *longer*. An extended cut featured Marty threatening his father with a hair dryer “heat-ray” and identifying himself as a Supreme Klingon. While amusing, director Robert Zemeckis wisely trimmed the scene.
The hard cut from the Vader line to George’s enthusiastic dash down the street delivers the biggest comedic punch. You can still spot remnants of the deleted footage,like the continued use of the Van Halen tape,and even notice Marty’s hair dryer mysteriously disappearing between shots.
### Why Less is More: The Power of Editing
These deleted scenes demonstrate a key principle of filmmaking: sometimes, less is more. Trimming unneeded elements sharpens the focus and maximizes impact. The final cut of “Back to the Future” is a masterclass in pacing and comedic timing.
### Catch It on the Big Screen Again!
If you’re eager to revisit this classic, mark your calendar. “Back to the Future” is scheduled for a theatrical re-release on October 31, 2025. You’ll have another chance to experience the magic – and appreciate just how close we came to a very different future indeed.
