Diane Lane recently opened up about her experience filming the classic movie The Outsiders, highlighting the challenges of being surrounded by an almost entirely male cast. During an appearance on the October 29, 2023 episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, Lane described her time on set as “great” yet acknowledged, “It was kind of… too much testosterone for one girl.”
The 1983 film, based on the novel by S.E. Hinton, follows a group of teenage boys known as the “Greasers,” who are constantly at odds with their wealthier rivals, the “Socs.” Lane played Cherry, a character who becomes entwined in the conflicts between the two groups. Reflecting on her time on set, she noted, “I kept to myself. But I was definitely pinching myself. I was definitely overwhelmed.”
Memorable Moments on Set
Lane recalled the energetic atmosphere during long night shoots, where she found herself observing the dynamics among her male co-stars, including Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, and Ralph Macchio. She remarked, “It was interesting being on set with all the boys… you could sit back and just observe the male… the way they’re working it out with each other.”
Reflecting on the camaraderie, she wondered about the balance between their character portrayals and their off-screen interactions. Lane stated, “There was so much to observe. I’m still kind of back there, people-watching.”
In a related discussion, actress Jennifer Lopez revealed on The Howard Stern Show that she was initially offered Lane’s role. Lopez humorously described her feelings, saying, “It haunts me a little bit, because it’s, like, the one that I turned down.”
Diane Lane’s Current Projects
Following her iconic role in The Outsiders, Lane has continued to build a successful career, with notable performances including her Academy Award-nominated role in Unfaithful. Currently, she is promoting her latest film, Anniversary, which also stars Phoebe Dynevor and Kyle Chandler. The film explores the complexities of family dynamics as a couple reunites with their children annually to celebrate their anniversary.
Tensions escalate when their son introduces his girlfriend, who is involved in a controversial movement known as the Change. Lane expressed her hopes for audiences to embrace empathy, stating, “I think that silencing people can radicalize people,” and emphasized the importance of listening to one another.
As she continues to navigate her career, Lane’s reflections on her early experiences remind audiences of the unique challenges faced by women in the film industry, particularly in male-dominated environments.
