Casting What-Ifs
Redford; Sinatra; Lancaster; Christie
This discussion recalls a choice from an earlier episode.
In the discussion (12)
Approx. transcript time · 00:20:52Read transcript
- Mamet first wrote for an Arthur Hiller version; another screenplay by Jay Presson Allen attracted Redford, who brought in his own writer. — Bill Simmons
- Redford reportedly sought a more likable,nonalcoholic underdog. — Bill Simmons
- Meetings with Pollack reportedly angered producers,who fired Redford and restored Mamet’s script with Lumet. — Bill Simmons
- Redford is rejected for the role because his protected heroic image would make a generic film, despite respect for his arts advocacy. — Sean Fennessey
- David Brown reportedly said Sinatra offered to play Galvin free,but the producers wanted Newman. — Sean Fennessey
- A studio owner’s warning about starting a car is recounted as a half-joking threat,not a verified criminal act. — Sean Fennessey
- Lancaster reportedly was intended to play Concannon. — Sean Fennessey
- Lancaster might work but would be physically imposing rather than Mason’s professorial,slithering intelligence. — Sean Fennessey
- Christie reportedly declined Laura. — Bill Simmons
- The role is defended as mysterious and opposite Newman.
- A counterargument calls the role underdeveloped and unkind to women.
- Christie's Power performance is criticized without calling her an overrated actress; possible poor fit with Lumet is suggested. — Chris Ryan
