Celebrating the 40th anniversary of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” the documentary “Saving Ferris Butler” is set to screen at the Pickwick Theatre in Park Ridge, near Chicago, from September 18 to 24. This documentary delves into writer Ferris Butler’s assertion that he inspired the character Ferris Bueller from the iconic film.
Initially shown to a full house at New York’s Quad Cinema, the film is now reaching its thematic home in Chicago. Ferris Butler, an erstwhile writer for “Saturday Night Live” and a cable access talent, is at the documentary’s center. Executive producer and host D. B. Frick believed Butler’s story would captivate audiences. Frick described Butler as “a former Saturday Night Live writer, married to songwriter Beverly Ross, claiming to be this famous character from film history.” Notably, Ross gained fame for writing “Lollipop.”
Frick became aware of Butler’s claims 15 years ago. Butler recounted an encounter with actor and teacher Del Close, who expressed interest in making a film centered on Butler’s personality. This encounter reinforced Butler’s belief about inspiring Ferris Bueller. Frick noted Butler’s vibrant character, comparable to the film’s Ferris. However, Frick emphasized that the documentary also tackles themes like authorship, recognition, and the narratives we remember in culture.
The premiere in Chicago aligns with the film’s setting and brings added excitement to the screenings. Frick disclosed that Butler was not the sole individual who claimed to inspire Ferris Bueller. “Writers often draw inspiration from their surroundings,” he remarked. The event will feature Q&A sessions with contributors and giveaways like hotel stays and meal vouchers. Frick appreciates bringing forgotten voices and comedic history to the forefront.
Andy Hoglund, a writer for “Saturday Night Live” histories, contributed to the documentary as a producer. He highlighted the value in exploring overlooked stories from SNL’s history, particularly the sixth season after the show’s original cast and producer Lorne Michaels departed. Ferris Butler’s contributions are part of these forgotten snippets. Hoglund found interest in stories diverging from typical SNL narratives.
Julius Olivas, the 26-year-old director of the documentary, was chosen for his prior work “Inky.” Olivas found Butler’s story intriguing within minutes of learning it. He was drawn to the notion of artists interpreting life through their work. The documentary also unfolds as a mystery, highlighting enduring interest in this cultural narrative.
The film includes interviews with figures like Patrick Weathers, a “Saturday Night Live” cast member during its infamously challenging 1980-81 season. Weathers described the experience as a blend of exhilaration, excitement, and pressure as they filled the original cast’s shoes. He recalls performing as Bob Dylan, marking a memorable sketch in his career. Weathers also sings “Quantum Entanglement” in the documentary and will engage in Q&A sessions during the screenings.
The documentary offers a fresh chapter for Butler, who was pleased about the film’s creation. Already working on a memoir, he welcomed the idea of a movie to share his narrative. This project revives Butler’s contributions and the discussions surrounding cultural history and creative origins.
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