Risky Business is a classic 1983 movie that has left a lasting mark on pop culture. Starring Tom Cruise as a high school teenager named Joel Goodson, it tells the story of a young man who learns about life, love, and the choices that can change everything. From memorable quotes to iconic scenes, this film has become a favorite for many. It’s not just a story about a teenager; it’s also about taking risks and the consequences that come with them.
Today, we’ll be sharing some fun and interesting trivia about Risky Business. Whether you’re a huge fan or just curious about the film, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You might find out how the famous “dancing in his underwear” scene was created or learn what the cast thought about making the movie. Get ready to test your knowledge and see how much you really know about this teen classic. Whether you can recall all the details or are just learning about it for the first time, you’ll find something exciting in the world of Risky Business trivia!
Risky Business Trivia
Joel’s Journey in Risky Business
1. What is the name of the main character played by Tom Cruise? (Answer: Joel Goodson)
2. In what city does the movie take place? (Answer: Chicago)
3. What type of business does Joel start in his house? (Answer: A prostitution ring)
4. Who is Joel’s love interest in the film? (Answer: Lana)
5. What famous saying does Joel’s character learn to live by? (Answer: “Sometimes you gotta say, What the…” )
6. What is Joel’s family situation when the movie starts? (Answer: His parents are out of town)
7. How does Joel initially react to the thought of taking risks? (Answer: He is anxious and uncertain)
8. What iconic outfit does Joel wear in the famous dance scene? (Answer: Underwear and a dress shirt)
9. Who challenges Joel to take a risk and make decisions? (Answer: His friend Miles)
10. What item does Joel use to attract clients? (Answer: A sign in his window)
Memorable Moments in Risky Business
1. What song is featured during the famous dancing scene? (Answer: “Old Time Rock and Roll”)
2. Which actor plays Joel’s friend Miles? (Answer: Curtis Armstrong)
3. What does Joel do when he first tries to attract customers? (Answer: He gets nervous and struggles)
4. What does Lana make Joel do that surprises him? (Answer: She asks him to trust her)
5. What piece of furniture does Joel slide across while dancing? (Answer: A wooden floor)
6. Where do Joel and Lana initially meet? (Answer: At a café)
7. What is the outcome of Joel’s first encounter with a client? (Answer: It goes awry)
8. How does Joel initially feel about his parents being out of town? (Answer: Relieved and excited)
9. What does the film use to depict capitalism? (Answer: The business Joel starts)
10. What iconic car is prominently featured in the film? (Answer: A Porsche)
Behind the Scenes of Risky Business
1. Who directed Risky Business? (Answer: Paul Brickman)
2. What year was Risky Business released? (Answer: 1983)
3. How did Tom Cruise prepare for the dance scene? (Answer: He practiced alone)
4. What unusual aspect of the film came from the script’s original concept? (Answer: It was initially darker)
5. How was the dancing scene filmed? (Answer: In one take)
6. Who was originally cast for the role of Lana? (Answer: Rebecca De Mornay)
7. What did the studio think of the original ending? (Answer: They requested changes)
8. How did the production team handle the film’s budget? (Answer: They worked with a small budget)
9. What key element does the soundtrack contribute to the film? (Answer: It sets the mood)
10. What type of camera techniques were used to film the movie? (Answer: Unique angles and lighting)
Risky Business and Its Impact on Culture
1. How did Risky Business influence teen movies that followed? (Answer: It set new standards)
2. What iconic phrase originated from the film? (Answer: “Let’s make some money”)
3. How is the film remembered in the context of 1980s cinema? (Answer: As a classic)
4. What lasting effect did Risky Business have on Tom Cruise’s career? (Answer: It launched him to stardom)
5. What element of youth culture does the film explore? (Answer: The pursuit of freedom)
6. How has Risky Business been referenced in other films? (Answer: As a cultural homage)
7. What genre did the film help to define? (Answer: Teen comedy-drama)
8. How has the iconic dance scene been parodied over the years? (Answer: Many comedic references)
9. What makes the film relatable to younger generations? (Answer: The themes of adolescence)
10. How has Risky Business influenced fashion trends? (Answer: Popularized underwear styles)
Characters in Risky Business
1. What role does Rebecca De Mornay play? (Answer: Lana)
2. Who plays Joel’s father in the film? (Answer: Nicholas Pryor)
3. What traits define Joel’s character? (Answer: Ambitious and naive)
4. How does Lana challenge Joel throughout the movie? (Answer: By pushing him to take risks)
5. What is Miles’s role in Joel’s life? (Answer: His supportive friend)
6. Which character serves as a villain in the film? (Answer: The bad guys Joel encounters)
7. What does Joel’s transformation signify in the movie? (Answer: Growth and maturity)
8. How does Joel’s relationship with his parents affect his decisions? (Answer: It creates conflict)
9. What impact does Lana have on Joel’s view of life? (Answer: She opens his eyes)
10. How does Miles represent the carefree teen spirit? (Answer: By encouraging fun)
Iconic Quotes from Risky Business
1. What quote captures Joel’s attitude towards risk? (Answer: “Sometimes, you gotta say, What the…”)
2. Which quote reflects the movie’s central theme? (Answer: “It’s just a business.”)
3. What line does Joel say to express desperation? (Answer: “This is not a joke!”)
4. How does Lana influence Joel through her words? (Answer: She encourages him)
5. What phrase shows Joel’s eagerness in the film? (Answer: “I want it all!”)
6. What memorable quote highlights the film’s humor? (Answer: “You know, you can’t do that.”)
7. Which quote reflects the tension in Joel’s life? (Answer: “I can’t deal with this!”)
8. What quote from Miles is often remembered? (Answer: “Just do it!”)
9. How does Joel articulate his feelings toward love? (Answer: “Love is a risky business.”)
10. What tough decision does Joel articulate with a quote? (Answer: “I have to make a choice.”)
The Legacy of Risky Business
1. What year did Risky Business receive a VHS release? (Answer: 1984)
2. How has the film changed over the years in public opinion? (Answer: It has grown in appreciation)
3. In what ways do fan conventions honor the film? (Answer: Through panels and discussions)
4. What awards did Risky Business receive? (Answer: Various nominations)
5. How does Risky Business continue to be an icon in pop culture? (Answer: Through references in media)
6. What is a common topic of discussion among fans today? (Answer: The dance scene’s impact)
7. How do filmmakers view Risky Business today? (Answer: As a classic example)
8. What influence did the movie have on later films? (Answer: It inspired many teen comedies)
9. How is the film often ranked among other classics? (Answer: High ratings)
10. In what context is Risky Business still used in educational settings? (Answer: As an example of storytelling)
Final Thoughts
Risky Business has carved out a noteworthy place in movie history, entertaining audiences while delivering valuable lessons about taking risks and embracing change. With memorable quotes, iconic scenes, and a dynamic cast, the film continues to resonate with both fans and newcomers. Its impact on pop culture and influence on future films is undeniable, helping to shape the teen movie genre we know today.
Whether learning about Joel’s unforgettable journey or exploring the movie’s behind-the-scenes magic, Risky Business trivia brings a new appreciation for this classic film. If you enjoyed this trivia journey, consider diving deeper into other topics like horror trivia or true crime trivia.