The Goonies has captivated audiences for decades with its thrilling treasure hunt, memorable characters, and 80s nostalgia. But what went on behind the scenes during the making of this iconic film? From hidden reactions to unexpected directorial surprises, these 10 behind-the-scenes facts will make you appreciate The Goonies even more.
1. Sean Astin Kept the Treasure Map
Sean Astin, who played Mikey, was allowed to keep the treasure map from the movie as a souvenir. However, his mother, actress Patty Duke, unknowingly threw it away.
2. The Cast’s First Look at the Pirate Ship Was Real
Director Richard Donner wanted the cast’s reaction to the pirate ship to be genuine, so he kept the set hidden from the actors until they filmed that scene. Their shocked expressions are 100% real.
3. Sloth’s Makeup Took Hours
The actor who played Sloth, John Matuszak, spent around five hours in makeup each day to achieve the monstrous look. The prosthetics included a mechanical eye that had to be remote-controlled.
4. The Water Slide Was Real
The famous water slide scene was filmed using real water slides built into the set. The actors genuinely enjoyed filming those scenes, making it one of the most fun days on set.
5. Steven Spielberg Directed Some Scenes
Although Richard Donner was the main director, Steven Spielberg, who was the executive producer, directed several second-unit shots, including much of the cave sequences.
6. Josh Brolin’s First Film Role
The Goonies marked the film debut of Josh Brolin, who played Brand. He later became a well-known actor starring in movies like No Country for Old Men and as Thanos in the Avengers films.
7. Data’s Gadgets Actually Worked
Many of Data’s gadgets, like the “pinchers of peril” and the boxing glove, were functional props that worked on set. Actor Ke Huy Quan, who played Data, really got to use them during filming.
8. The Octopus Scene Was Cut
There was originally a scene featuring an octopus attack, but it was cut from the theatrical release. However, it’s mentioned by Data at the end when the Goonies are recounting their adventure to the police.
9. The Cast Got Close
The young cast members became fast friends during filming, and their on-screen chemistry is a result of the genuine bonds they formed off-screen. To this day, many of the cast members remain friends.
10. Richard Donner Tricked the Cast in the Final Scene
The director surprised the cast during the film’s final scene by showing up in costume to appear as one of the extras on the beach, catching the cast off-guard and adding to their real emotions during the final moments of filming.