Why Isn't Marty Recognized by His Parents in Back to the Future?

Many viewers of the iconic 1985 film Back to the Future have long been puzzled by one of its most notable plot holes. The question remains: Why were Marty McFly's parents, George and Lorraine, unable to recognize him when he was a grown man in 1955?

The Original Question and Quandary

Initially, the confusion arose from a discrepancy in the relationship between Marty, George, and Lorraine. Many felt that it would be implausible for Lorraine and George to have no recollection of a teenager Marty when he initially arrived in 1955. After all, if Lorraine is already in her twenties by this point, she likely remembers when she and George were teenage couples.

As one user succinctly put it, 'Lorraine and George only knew him for a couple of days back in 1955 and that was 30 years ago.'

The Explanation from Bob Gale

Recent debates on the plot hole were reignited when Bob Gale, the screenwriter of all three Back to the Future films, chimed in. He clarified that the relationship was a deliberate choice by the creators to provide a fresh start for the characters and add to the story's mystique and time travel intrigue.

In an interview, Gale explained, 'Bob Gale himself finally explained why that was. As most people who have watched this movie more than enough times should already know—George and Lorraine only knew Marty while he was in 1955 for just ‘one week.’ Since they were just teenagers at the time, someone they barely had been around was going to become “forgetful” due to the passage of time and the interjection of the 30-year gap.'

Understanding the Plot and Character Developments

The explanation by Bob Gale sheds light on the character development and the unique narrative structure of the film. By having George and Lorraine remember Marty as only a teenage boy, the story maintains a level of mystery and allows for a smooth transition in character relationship dynamics. This choice also adds to the drama and emotional depth of the film.

For instance, when Marty returns from 1955 as a grown man in 1985, his parents have no memory of his teenage self. This means that his parents who are, by then, older and more mature, connect with him as a son on a deeper, more adult level. This dynamic is further emphasized in the film, with scenes like when George accidentally punches Marty and Lorraine's exasperated comment, 'Look who's talking, George!'

Conclusion

Bob Gale's explanation provides a satisfying resolution to the plot hole. By understanding the deliberate choices made by the creators, viewers can appreciate the narrative complexity and character development in the Back to the Future films. The time travel plot hole, while initially puzzling, adds to the overall storytelling and the unique charm of this beloved classic.

Keywords

Back to the Future, time travel plot holes, Marty McFly