As Apple would become known for in the 1980s, the ad featuring Kevin Costner boasts a fittingly low-key cinematic look. One could argue that — on a much smaller scale — it may even have laid the groundwork for Apple’s iconic 1984 Macintosh ad, directed by the great Ridley Scott. It just so happens the 1983 Lisa spot boasts an impressive name in the director’s chair as well, with Adrian Lyne calling the shots.
Lyne is perhaps best known for directing “Flashdance,” which became one of 1983’s biggest box office hits. And it’s hard not to notice the Lisa ad fronts a similar visual palette as “Flashdance,” as do Lyne’s other ’80s staples, “9 1/2 Weeks” and “Fatal Attraction.” As the story goes, Lyne reportedly met Kevin Costner when the actor auditioned for a role in “Flashdance.” Though Costner didn’t get the part, Lyne was clearly impressed, booking him for the Apple gig soon after.
Unfortunately, appearing in a high-profile Apple ad did not immediately catapult Costner to superstardom. That ascent didn’t truly begin until 1985 when he broke out via the big screen one-two punch of “Fandango” and “Silverado.” The actor continued to win over fans in the ’80s with star-making turns in “The Untouchables,” “No Way Out,” “Bull Durham,” and “Field of Dreams.” In 1990, “Dances With Wolves” even made Costner an Oscar-winning director. Though he’s seen some dramatic ups and downs over ensuing decades, Costner has remained one of the most beloved stars to come out of the ’80s, though “Yellowstone” clearly ranks as one of his biggest hits.
