Empire Records introduced us to some actors who went on to become some of our faves. But that’s not all we got from this cult classic. From the soundtrack to the memorable lines to Rex Manning day, this 1995 film is a real gem. Here are some things you may or may not know about the film.
#1 – Robin Tunney Really Shaved Her Head
Actress Robin Tunney (Deb) actually shaved her head for the role. This required her to wear a wig for her role in The Craft, which was filmed immediately after. Oh, and PS, this role almost went to Angelina Jolie.
#2 – Sugarhigh Isn’t On The Soundtrack
I’ve always been bummed that the version of Sugarhigh from the movie isn’t on the soundtrack and here’s why. The version that played on the roof was a rough mix, chosen because a finalized version wasn’t ready in time. Though Renee Zellweger accompanied Cody Shivers in the film, she was simply singing along with his rough cut. Sadly, she is not featured on the track that actually made it onto the soundtrack.
#3 – Sugarhigh Isn’t On The Soundtrack
Renee Zellweger and Rory Cochrane were dating at the time. The couple met on the set of Dazed and Confused (Zellweger had a walk on role) two years prior to filming Empire Records. They also appeared together in the film Love and a .45, which also shot in Austin. She talked about moving from Austin to LA on Jimmy Kimmel in 2017.
@spilltheatx Renée Zellweger talks acting in Austin, Dazed and Confused and moving away. #reneezellweger #jimmykimmel #dazedandconfused #texasexes #austintxtiktok #spilltheatx
♬ original sound – Spill the ATX
#4 – The Record Store Isn’t Real
The vast two-story interior of the store wasn’t a real store. A massive set was built in a Wilmington, North Carolina warehouse. The store, and the story, was inspired by screenwriter Carol Heikkinen’s time working at a Tower Records.
#5 – Tom Jones Inspired Rex Manning
We have to talk about Rex Manning! Most people may know that April 8, Rex Manning Day, was chosen as a tribute to the day that Kurt Cobain was found dead. However, did you know that Rex’s wardrobe was inspired by Tom Jones? Now that I know that, it makes perfect sense.
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