The first mention of Dungeons and Dragons

Have you ever wondered what the first mention of Dungeons and Dragons was in cinema was?

I think we all know that in 1982 we had Mazes and Monsters (starring Tom Hanks in one of his earliest roles), and that there was earlier reference to D&D that year with the movie E.T., which has a great scene that really captures the essence of D&D in the 80s and is a true snapshot into my life. 

But what is the real first mention of the game we all love?   I think I have found it. 

"Taps" - a 1981 drama film directed by Harold Becker. Set at the fictional Bunker Hill Military Academy, the story follows a group of cadets led by Brian Moreland (Timothy Hutton) who are deeply devoted to their institution. When their beloved academy is threatened with closure and the demolition of their historic barracks, the cadets take matters into their own hands, escalating their resistance to the point of armed rebellion. As tensions rise and the situation spirals out of control, the film explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the destructive consequences of unchecked idealism. 

Its from this film, we have one of the most iconic actors in Hollywood, Tom Cruise (in just his second role) speaking with Sean Penn – inviting him to play in that nights game.  Sean turns him down, and we see some of Tom’s best acting. 

So, as you let that sink in – think about it for a moment, three of the richest people in Hollywood (Tom Hanks, Jamie Gertz and Tom Cruise) all got their starts with Dungeons and Dragons.   What are the odds?