The Idolmaker is a 1980 American musical drama directed by Taylor Hackford in his feature directorial debut, written by Edward di Lorenzo, and starring Ray Sharkey, Peter Gallagher, Paul Land, Tovah Feldshuh and Joe Pantoliano.

Loosely based on the life of rock promoter/producer Bob Marcucci, whose discoveries included Frankie Avalon and Fabian and who served as a technical advisor for the production, the film marked the screen debuts of both Gallagher and Land.

In order to promote Tommy by starting a record company, he reluctantly asks his father Frank for a $10,000 loan, criticizing him for selfishly abandoning his family for money and women.

Sometime later, Tommy performs his follow-up single "Sweet Little Lover" on the television show National Bandstand, ignoring the rehearsed choreography and spontaneously interacting with the female audience.

While celebrating his new success at the family restaurant, Vinnie becomes intoxicated, berates a clumsy waiter, and complains that Tommy will not follow his advice to study acting, frightening an overly concerned Brenda.

Sometime later, Vinnie gives his father a check to repay part of the loan, who warns him to remain humble and protect his investment while simultaneously advising him to draw up a contract with Tommy and recruit more clients.

After winning over the Memphis audience with his Elvis-inspired song "However Dark the Night", Caesare opts to switch management and signs with Phil Delano, with Gino following him.

Having served as the inspiration for the character of Guido/Caesare, Forte claimed the film made him look like "a totally manufactured singer, a mere pretty face without any singing ability or acting talent.

"[6] He went on to say they settled out of court, requiring he, his wife, and family receive apologies in The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, and Marcucci's 7.5% ownership of the film passed to Forte.