Empire Records introduced us to some actors who later became our favorites. But that’s not all we have from this cult classic. From the soundtrack to the memorable Rex Manning day lines, this 1995 film is a true gem. Here are some things you may or may not know about the film.
#1 – Robin Tunney actually shaved his head
Actress Robin Tunney (Deb) actually shaved her head for the role. This required her to wear a wig for her role The craftwhich was filmed immediately afterwards. Oh, and PS: This role almost went to Angelina Jolie.
#2 – Sugar High is not on the soundtrack
I’ve always been amazed that the version of Sugar high from the film is not on the soundtrack and here’s why. The version played on the roof was a rough mix chosen because a final version was not ready in time. Although Renee Zellweger accompanied Cody Shivers in the film, she only sang along with his rough cut. Unfortunately, she can’t be heard in the track that actually made it onto the soundtrack.
#3 – Sugar high is not on the soundtrack
Renee Zellweger and Rory Cochrane were together at the time. The couple met on set Dazed and confused (Zellweger had a walk-on role) two years before filming Rich records. They also appeared together in the film Kind regards and a .45 that was also shot in Austin. She spoke on Jimmy Kimmel about her move from Austin to LA 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 store’s huge two-story interior wasn’t a real store. A huge set was built in a warehouse in Wilmington, North Carolina. The store and story were inspired by screenwriter Carol Heikkinen’s time at Tower Records.
#5 – Tom Jones inspired Rex Manning
We need to talk about Rex Manning! Most people may know that April 8th, Rex Manning Day, was chosen as a tribute to the day Kurt Cobain was found dead. However, did you know that Rex’s wardrobe was inspired by Tom Jones? Now that I know this, it makes perfect sense.
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