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Nashville (Tennessee).-  Gibson, the iconic and world-renowned musical instrument brand, has launched a global campaign to locate one of the most legendary guitars in cinematic history: the Cherry Red Gibson ES-345 played by Michael J. Fox during the unforgettable “Enchantment Under the Sea” scene in “Back to the Future.” 

This pivotal moment in the 1985 film left a lasting imprint on pop culture, music, and generations of aspiring guitarists. The guitar mysteriously disappeared during the making of the film’s 1989 sequel and has remained lost ever since. Now, Gibson is inviting fans around the world to help solve this decades-old mystery.

In the groundbreaking scene, Marty McFly, portrayed by Michael J. Fox, performs Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” at a high school dance, marking a moment that transcended cinema and became a cultural milestone. 

It wasn’t just an electrifying movie moment; it was a spark that ignited the musical journeys of countless viewers. Released on July 3, 1985, “Back to the Future” quickly became the highest-grossing U.S. film that year and earned four Academy Award nominations, including one win. The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis and co-written with Bob Gale, launched a franchise that has grossed nearly $1 billion globally.

The guitar’s disappearance has puzzled filmmakers and fans alike for years. In honor of the film’s 40th anniversary, Gibson is producing a new documentary titled “Lost to the Future”, which will chronicle the international quest to recover this iconic instrument. 

Directed by Doc Crotzer, the film will feature in-depth interviews with cast members such as Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd, and Harry Waters Jr., as well as musicians like Huey Lewis and other celebrities who were inspired by the film.

Michael J. Fox reflected on the creation of the scene, calling it a personal homage to his favorite guitar heroes. 

“When we talked about the scene, I said I wanted to do Hendrix behind the head, Townshend’s windmill, Eddie Van Halen’s tapping—everything I loved,” said Fox. “I didn’t know it would impact people like it did. John Mayer and Chris Martin told me they started playing because of that scene. I just love the guitar and I love the movie.”

Bob Gale, co-creator and producer of “Back to the Future,” humorously remarked, “Since we don’t have a functioning time machine, this is probably our best shot at solving this mystery.” 

Cesar Gueikian, president and CEO of Gibson, described the search as a dream project. “The dance scene in “Back to the Future” changed me musically. Working with Michael J. Fox and the team is a privilege. I hope we find Marty’s ES-345!”

Mark Agnesi, Gibson’s Director of Brand Experience, has been hunting for the guitar since his first day on the job in 2009. 

“This is the guitar that made me want to play. For many in my generation, it’s more than a prop—it’s the reason we picked up a guitar in the first place.” 

Todd Harapiak, Gibson’s Media Director, added that very few cinematic moments have had such a lasting impact on musicians worldwide.

“Lost to the Future” promises a deep dive into this mystery, blending elements of cultural nostalgia, music history, and investigative storytelling. The film will take viewers from obscure film prop warehouses to vintage guitar stores, auction houses, and unexpected leads. 

This isn’t just a hunt for a missing object—it’s a journey through a rich tapestry of music, cinema, and identity that defined the 1980s and continues to resonate with audiences today.

Produced by Gibson Films, “Lost to the Future” will transport audiences back to 1985 through archival footage, interviews, and the stories of those touched by the film and its unforgettable music. The project follows Gibson Films’ growing portfolio of long-form music documentaries, including “The Making of 4,” a behind-the-scenes look at the album by Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators.

Anyone who has tips on the whereabouts of the original Gibson ES-345 played by Michael J. Fox in “Back to the Future” is encouraged to contact Gibson through www.LostToTheFuture.com or by calling/texting 1-855-345-1955. This is a rare opportunity for fans and collectors alike to help bring back one of the most important guitars in pop culture history.