Nick Castle reportedly lost Hook to Spielberg, then lost Sleepless to Ephron after creative conflict, eventually directing Dennis the Menace the same year. — Bill Simmons
Internet casting lists are treated skeptically; Roberts turning down Annie is considered credible because she reportedly discussed it herself. — Bill Simmons
Demi Moore is an intriguing hypothetical Annie but is considered too feisty or controlled; Robin Wright likewise lacks Ryan’s daffy quality.
Bullock is considered too early in her career and Roberts too famous, potentially overpowering the film. — Bill Simmons
Ryan’s accessible appeal and relatability are defended as essential to supporting a character who stalks a stranger.
Ryan reportedly pushed for husband Dennis Quaid as Sam, but Ephron rejected the married pairing; the panel doubts Quaid could deliver the radio speech as effectively. — Bill Simmons
The original Jonah was replaced after days; an assertion that Hanks pushed the firing is qualified by his documentary recollection that Ephron fired the child. Ross Malinger's later car-sales work is reported secondhand. — Bill Simmons
Russell reportedly stayed in character but removed the eye patch between takes because it damaged his depth perception. — Bill Simmons
East St. Louis was selected for its old buildings, river, bridge, and blocks of fire-damaged rubble. — Bill Simmons
The Chain of Rocks Bridge was reportedly purchased for one dollar, and the city darkened ten blocks nightly for filming. — Bill Simmons
An eleven-year-old J. J. Abrams reportedly prompted the insert proving Maggie died, which Carpenter shot with Adrian Barbeau in their garage. — Bill Simmons
James Cameron worked on visual effects and cinematography before The Terminator and was considered the set genius. — Bill Simmons
