The Secret of My Success 1987
"There's no such thing as an overnight success. Brantley Foster took two weeks."
In *The Secret of My Success (1987)*, director Herbert Ross crafts a sharp, energetic comedy about ambition and the hustle behind success. Michael J.
Director: Herbert Ross
Cast
Michael J. Fox
Brantley Foster aka Carlton Whitfield
Helen Slater
Christy Wills
Richard Jordan
Howard Prescott
Margaret Whitton
Vera Prescott
John Pankow
Fred Melrose
Christopher Murney
Barney Rattigan
Gerry Bamman
Art Thomas
Fred Gwynne
Donald Davenport
Carol Ann Susi
Jean
Elizabeth Franz
Grace Foster
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Secret of My Success (1987) about?
This 1980s comedy follows Brantley Foster, a small-town graduate who moves to New York with big dreams—only to find himself stuck in a corporate mailroom. With determination and a bit of luck, he navigates office politics, workplace romances, and the challenges of proving himself in a cutthroat business world.
Who directed The Secret of My Success?
The Secret of My Success was directed by Herbert Ross, known for his work across comedies and dramas, including *Footloose* and *The Goodbye Girl*.
Who stars in The Secret of My Success?
The film stars Michael J. Fox as Brantley Foster, alongside Helen Slater, Richard Jordan, Margaret Whitton, and John Pankow in pivotal roles.
Is The Secret of My Success (1987) worth watching?
If you enjoy classic 1980s comedies with a smart, aspirational lead and plenty of workplace antics, *The Secret of My Success* delivers fun and energy. While not a groundbreaking film, its themes of ambition and hustle give it a timeless, feel-good appeal.
How long is The Secret of My Success?
The Secret of My Success runs for 111 minutes, or just under two hours of non-stop corporate comedy.
🎥 Trailer
About The Secret of My Success (1987) — A 1980s Corporate Comedy Classic with Michael J. Fox
In *The Secret of My Success (1987)*, director Herbert Ross crafts a sharp, energetic comedy about ambition and the hustle behind success. Michael J. Fox stars as Brantley Foster, a bright young man from Kansas who trades in his cowboy boots for a shot at the big city dream in New York. Armed with degrees but little experience, Brantley lands a job in the mailroom of his uncle's sprawling corporation—only to discover that climbing the corporate ladder means playing by rules he never learned. With wit and hustle, he navigates office politics, workplace crushes, and the constant grind of proving himself in a cutthroat world.
The film balances high-energy humor with relatable themes of perseverance and opportunism, all set against the backdrop of 1980s corporate culture. Fox's charisma shines as Brantley bluffs, schemes, and improvises his way toward recognition, while Helen Slater and Richard Jordan add layers of charm and tension to the story. It's a feel-good underdog tale that asks what success really costs—and whether the ride is worth the bruises.
