The 1967 musical comedy film 'Good Times' marked the feature directorial debut of William Friedkin and starred the iconic duo Sonny & Cher. While the film itself is a lighthearted spoof of various genres, its production was anything but simple. From budget constraints to creative differences, the making of 'Good Times' offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of filmmaking during the 1960s.
Initial Concept and Development
The idea for 'Good Times' originated with Sonny Bono, who
was eager to create a film starring himself and Cher. The couple was introduced to William Friedkin, a young documentary filmmaker transitioning into drama. The collaboration was facilitated by the William Morris Agency, which represented both Bono and Friedkin. Initially, the film was intended to be a modest production with a budget of $500,000, of which Sonny and Cher were to receive $100,000.
However, the project quickly evolved beyond its original scope. The script, initially suggested by novice screenwriter Nicholas Hyams, was based on the concept of Sonny and Cher making a film about themselves. Despite initial enthusiasm, the collaboration with Hyams proved challenging, leading to his dismissal. Friedkin and Bono ultimately took on the task of writing the script themselves, with contributions from other writers for specific sequences.
Budget Challenges and Creative Decisions
As the production progressed, the budget swelled to $800,000, prompting producer Steve Broidy to sell the film to Columbia Pictures for $1.2 million. This move ensured a profit before shooting even began, with additional financing coming from the ABC network. Despite the financial backing, the production faced numerous challenges, including Friedkin's insistence on maintaining high production values.
Filming commenced in March 1966, but by the end of the scheduled 20-day shoot, significant portions of the film remained incomplete. Friedkin's commitment to quality led him to secure an additional $100,000 to finish the film, employing a non-union crew and shooting guerrilla style. This approach allowed for the completion of essential scenes, particularly those involving musical performances.
Post-Production and Legacy
The post-production phase of 'Good Times' was fraught with difficulties, partly due to Friedkin's unique working style, which clashed with editor Mel Shapiro. Despite these challenges, the film was completed and released on May 12, 1967. Although 'Good Times' received mixed reviews and was not a commercial success, it remains a notable entry in the careers of both Sonny & Cher and William Friedkin.
Friedkin later reflected on the experience, acknowledging that while he had made better films, he had never had as much fun as he did during the making of 'Good Times'. The film stands as a testament to the creative spirit and determination of its cast and crew, offering a unique glimpse into the world of 1960s filmmaking.
