138 minutes
Selected cast credits · Film reference
Hansen wanted unfamiliar leads; McConaughey was reportedly considered, but is doubted as Exley. Matt Damon’s Departed role is compared with the part.
Hansen reportedly screened The Bad and the Beautiful, In a Lonely Place, The Lineup, Private Hell 36 and Kiss Me Deadly for the cast.
David Caruso is suggested for Sid, then preferred as Jack Vincennes; the latter fits the more worn-down book character.
Ebert gave four stars and called the film one of the year’s best; the hosts find the praise predictable.
A $35 million budget and gross transcribed as 1.26.2 million are reported; the gross needs a recording check.
Buscemi and Kevin Pollak are suggested for Sid.
Patchett’s business background prompts the objection that gambling should be part of his criminal operation.
McConaughey reportedly regretted declining, Crowe was persuaded after refusing, and an Isabella Scorupco offer is explicitly doubted alongside reports Basinger was first choice.
A Dudley suggestion transcribed as Apostle/postuate is praised for Irish authenticity but may signal villainy too early; the identity needs confirmation.
Camera angles reportedly excluded later tall buildings, and Pearce wore a wig for the fight shot months after principal photography.
Basinger’s resemblance and acting style are questioned against the more playful Veronica Lake.
Exley’s attraction to Lynn is interpreted as possibly involving Bud; removing Inez’s book relationship changes his characterization.
The producer liked the lead three actors and story but did not love the film; DeVito, Basinger and the dialogue felt cheesy.
