When audiences ask who played meat in Porky's, they are usually referring to the brief but memorable scene where a naked woman emerges from a meat locker. The role was performed by Susan Clark, whose brief appearance became one of the most talked about moments in the 1982 teen sex comedy.
Although Susan Clark appears on screen for only a few seconds, the impact of the meat locker scene has endured in popular culture. Understanding the casting, context, and legacy of this moment helps explain why casting choices in Porky's continue to generate curiosity.
Behind The Scenes Context
| Aspect | Details | Significance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actor | Susan Clark | Primary performer in the meat locker scene | Cameo, not credited on some early releases |
| Scene Purpose | Visual gag reinforcing teenage curiosity | Designed to shock and provoke laughter | Beefcake style reveal |
| Filming Approach | Shot quickly with body double | Limited rehearsal, improvised timing | Multiple angles for editing options |
| Cultural Impact | Instant urban legend status | Referenced in later teen comedies | Still discussed decades later |
Susan Clark’s Role Details
On Set Experience
Susan Clark has spoken in interviews about feeling both amused and bewildered during the shoot. The production prioritized speed to preserve the spontaneity of the gag, and Clark trusted the crew to keep the scene light and clinical.
Casting Considerations
Director Bob Clark wanted a recognizable face with comedic timing, and Susan Clark fit the bill. Her prior work in television and film gave producers confidence that she could handle the absurdity without breaking character.
Public Reception and Memorability
Immediate Reaction
The scene generated a strong audience response in theaters, with laughter erupting at the reveal. Critics at the time noted that the moment was effective in capturing the hormonal energy of the characters.
Long Term Legacy
Even as Porky's aged, the meat locker scene remained a reference point in discussions of 1980s teen cinema. Susan Clark became closely associated with the film, despite the brief nature of her appearance.
Behind The Camera Logistics
Scheduling and Coordination
Shooting the scene required tight scheduling to minimize discomfort and maximize efficiency. The art department prepared the set and lighting to create the right mix of atmosphere and comedy.
Post Production Choices
Editors selected takes that balanced clarity with mystery, ensuring the audience could identify the scene without dwelling too long on explicit detail. Sound design and music further heightened the comedic effect.
Industry Reflection
- Remember that casting decisions like who played meat in Porky's reflect era specific humor and risk tolerance.
- Use clear scheduling and professional crew dynamics to ensure comfort and efficiency on sensitive shoots.
- Plan editing and sound to support the joke without lingering on explicit imagery.
- Recognize how such moments can become cultural touchstones that define a film's legacy.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which actress played the woman in the meat locker in Porky's?
Susan Clark played the woman revealed from the meat locker in Porky's.
Was a body double used for the meat locker scene?
Yes, a body double was used for certain angles and shots to streamline the filming process.
How did Susan Clark feel about being part of such a famous scene?
Clark described the experience as surreal but lighthearted, appreciating the professionalism of the crew.
Did the scene require multiple takes or reshoots?
Multiple takes were filmed to give editors flexibility, though the scene was largely completed in a single day.