Here's a nice video about my favorite Houdini biopic from the Trailers From Hell YouTube channel. A few details here I didn't know, such as George Pal initially wanting Marlon Brando to play Houdini? Wow. Anyway, enjoy.
Thanks to Diego Domingo for the alert.
You can write a book on these Hollywood casting, bullet dodging close calls. Mickey Rooney was initially considered for Carroll O' Connor's iconic role of Archie Bunker. James Caan in the 1978 Superman film before Christopher Reeves was chosen.
ReplyDeleteThat would make a great book! I'm surprised one doesn't already exist. Maybe one does? James Caan was also being talked about for Houdini. Check out my top related link for many others.
DeleteA good title for that book: What Were They Thinking? George Pal was absolutely incredible! He gave us Houdini, War of the Worlds, Tom Thumb, and The Time Machine. Films that had enchanted us as children through the television tube screen. What a resume, and he had a reputation for delivering his films on time and within budget.
DeleteBTW--Dorothy Young mentioned in an interview that in her opinion Harvey Keitel came the closest to portraying Houdini. She noted that his mannerisms and gait were much like the Handcuff King.
DeleteI am so glad Tony Curtis and his wife played the parts. It made it more intimate and special.
DeleteNo actor in 1952-1953 could have come even close to portraying Houdini, than Tony Curtis.