Casting What-Ifs
Christopher Reeve was attached to play Ben Richards in a darker, book-faithful version; Andrew Davis began as director; Chuck Woolery was wanted for Killian before Richard Dawson.
In the discussion (6)
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- Christopher Reeve was attached when the story focused on an unemployed man surviving a violent show for thirty days to feed his family. — Bill Simmons
- Andrew Davis was fired as director after two weeks, a decision Arnold later called terrible. — Bill Simmons
- Chuck Woolery was unavailable for Killian, and Arnold reportedly suggested his friend Richard Dawson. — Bill Simmons
- Christopher Reeve is endorsed as a plausible mid-eighties action lead with the physique and ability to deliver the one-liners. — Bill Simmons
- The film is judged likely to have been better with Andrew Davis directing. — Bill Simmons
- Chuck Woolery’s acting experience is questioned, although his cool television persona suggests potential for an evil character if he could perform the role. — Bill Simmons