In the discussion (6)
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- Wasson’s odd, unstarry presence is questioned, but a major star such as Travolta or Pacino might not work as this humiliated protagonist.
- Kurt Russell might give a better performance but make a worse film; Hanks is considered ideal for the ordinary-man part. — Sean Fennessey
- The casting is defended as a modern Jimmy Stewart ordinary man and struggling low-tier actor; Dreyfuss is considered but his career circumstances complicate it.
- Wasson works best in the first act but may lack force for the later thriller. Caruso is floated, then doubted as someone a partner would cheat on. — Chris Ryan
- Wasson’s mundane early behavior emphasizes his lack of star aura; Giamatti is imagined as a later-era alternative. — Chris Ryan
- Kathleen Turner as Gloria could supply both the appearance and voice, though the character’s limited function would probably remain. — Bill Simmons