Back to the Future remains one of the most recognizable films in pop culture. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover, and Thomas F. Wilson, the film follows teenager Marty McFly, who inadvertently threatens his own existence after being sent back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean. To set things right, Marty must ensure his future parents fall in love before time runs out. The film became a critical and commercial success and remains widely regarded as a science-fiction comedy classic.
In celebration of the film’s 40th anniversary, Insight Editions has announced the upcoming release of Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay. Clocking in at 348 pages, this hardcover volume is annotated by original screenwriter Bob Gale and packed with commentary and behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the film. Alongside a faithful reproduction of the final screenplay, the book uses different colours for each draft, allowing readers to track revisions and changes throughout the writing process. Fully illustrated throughout, it also includes film stills, concept art, and other production materials.
For collectors, Insight Editions has also announced a limited edition of the book. Limited to 500 copies, this slipcased release is quarter-bound in textured Wibalin paper with metallic silver cloth, debossed with silver and blue foils, and finished with three tip-on images. Each of the screenplay’s 147 scenes is paired with photographs and production commentary documenting the film’s development from early concepts through production.
Additional features include storyboards, previously unpublished unit photography, side-by-side comparisons with footage from the version of the film originally shot with actor Eric Stoltz, reproductions of set designs, and Gale’s commentary on both the writing and filmmaking process. Exclusive to this edition are a 16-page appendix and seven tip-in inserts. The package also includes a separate facsimile of the screenplay housed in its own slipcase and signed by Bob Gale.
Available for pre-order through Insight Editions, the standard edition of Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay is priced at $60 USD and is scheduled to ship on October 20. The limited edition is priced at $400 USD and is expected to ship on July 28.
