Pacific Heights serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of running a credit check on prospective renters when you’re a landlord. The film’s antagonist, Carter Hayes, is a prime example of the kind of tenant you’d want to avoid – one who will stop at nothing to ruin your life. In this case, Hayes preys on a couple who are new to the renting game, provoking them into actions that ultimately lead to their downfall while simultaneously tapping into their finances. Fortunately, the couple doesn’t take it lying down and manages to turn the tables on Hayes, culminating in a final confrontation that seems like the only possible resolution.
Always Screen Your Renters: A Lesson from Pacific Heights
10. Carter was bisexual in the original script.
In the initial version of the story, Carter was not only bisexual but also more aggressive towards the couple. The fact that he takes his time to terrorize them in the final film makes it all the more frightening.
9. The film was inspired by a true story the screenwriter went through.
The screenwriter based the plot on their own experience with a tenant they couldn’t get rid of. It’s a testament to how difficult it can be to deal with tenants who know their legal rights and exploit loopholes to act like jerks.
8. The home in the movie is not in Pacific Heights at all.
Contrary to what the film’s title suggests, the house is actually located across town in the Petroro District. However, pretending it’s in Pacific Heights gives it a more upscale feel.
7. This is the second consecutive movie in which Keaton played a deranged individual.
Michael Keaton portrayed a mentally unstable character in The Dream Team as well, although that film was a comedy.
6. Keaton and Modine have both been in Batman movies.
Keaton starred in Batman and Batman Returns, while Matthew Modine didn’t make his appearance in the franchise until The Dark Knight Rises many years later.
5. Patty’s full name is either wrong in the credits or the movie.
Both the police officer who speaks to her and Carter Hayes mispronounce her last name, so it’s unclear whether the mistake is in the movie or the credits. It seems more likely to be the latter.
4. Melanie Griffith didn’t care for this movie that much.
Griffith had a bad feeling about Pacific Heights, but she went on to star in another film just days after this one wrapped up, so her apprehension may have been short-lived.
3. The film’s leads all have names that start with the same letter.
Melanie Griffith, Michael Keaton, and Matthew Modine all share the same initial. It’s unclear whether this was a deliberate choice or a happy accident.
2. There’s a Soundgarden video on TV when Hayes attacks Drake.
For those who remember, Soundgarden’s career took off in the 90s, and their presence in the film is a nod to that era.
1. This was a rare horror movie for the director.
John Schlesinger stepped out of his comfort zone with Pacific Heights, proving that even seasoned directors can benefit from trying something new.
Pacific Heights is a cautionary tale that will make you think twice about who you rent to, reminding landlords of the importance of thoroughly screening potential tenants.
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