Solarbabies

Details

Release year: 1986

Storyline

In a post-apocalyptic future ruled by the military, a group of renegade teenage orphans find a legendary orb, Bohdai, that can supposedly bring the rain back to dried up Earth.

Top credits

Did you know

• The movie was filmed on location in Spain, a country selected for its abundant desert landscape. Ironically, production was held up for several weeks due to - of all things - rain. It was also selected for its lower production costs (lower taxes, non-union crew, etc.) at the time.

• All of the main characters' names are from enlightenment legends and myths from various cultures.

• Filming began with a budget of $5 million, with executive producer Mel Brooks initially investing $1.5 million of his own funds. Production costs quickly escalated due to weather delays and on-set arguments between the cast and director Alan Johnson. At one point, Brooks flew to Spain and threatened to fire everybody. Additionally, he discovered what Johnson had shot didn't make sense or was technically of poor quality, so many re-shoots had to be done. Lastly, the costs of special effects and post-production were grossly underestimated. Brooks had to raise an additional $20 million to complete the film, including taking out a second mortgage on his home. After distributors MGM and UIP paid $14 million for the picture, Brooks said he lost about $9 million. He noted, however, that, over the years, due to home video and DVD sales, the film has about broken even.

Box Office

Gross (Domestic): $1,579,260

Opening Weekend (Domestic): $704,692 (1986-11-30)

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Technical specs

Sound mix

Dolby

Aspect ratio

2.35 : 1

Color

Color