Italian
Joaquin Phoenix almost quit ‘Gladiator’
The drama behind the scenes
The set of Gladiator was almost as dramatic as the film itself. Director Ridley Scott recently shed light on an intense moment involving Joaquin Phoenix, who portrayed the sinister Commodus. Phoenix, moments before filming an important scene, declared that he couldn’t proceed. This declaration stunned Scott and left Russell Crowe, who played the lead role of Maximus, perceiving Phoenix’s behavior as highly unprofessional.
Russell Crowe’s intervention
Crowe, known for his commanding screen presence, showed equal authority off-screen. When Phoenix voiced his doubts, dressed in his elaborate prince’s outfit, Crowe was quick to address the issue. With a mix of frustration and determination, Crowe urged Phoenix to stay committed. Scott recounted, “Russell said, ‘This is terribly unprofessional.’” This blunt assertion may have played a crucial role in convincing Phoenix to persist.
Building a bond on set
Scott further elaborated on the relationship dynamics on set. He mentioned that his bond with Phoenix allowed him to intervene effectively. The director described Gladiator as a “baptism of fire” for both him and Phoenix, suggesting that the challenging circumstances helped fortify their professional and personal relationships.
A look back at the Gladiator legacy
Gladiator remains a monumental film in the careers of both Crowe and Phoenix. The movie not only captured audiences worldwide but also earned critical acclaim. Crowe took home the Oscar for Best Actor, while Phoenix received a nomination for his compelling performance as the morally corrupt Commodus.
To revisit the epic grandeur of the film, check out the Gladiator trailer.
Reuniting for a new project
The bond forged during Gladiator proved lasting, with Phoenix and Scott collaborating again in 2023 for the historical drama Napoleon. This reunion underlines the resilience of their professional relationship, which survived the challenges onset.
The recurring theme of cold feet
Phoenix’s hesitance to commit isn’t an isolated incident confined to Gladiator. A recent report highlighted that Phoenix exited a Todd Haynes film just days before shooting was set to begin. This decision forced the production to be indefinitely shelved, reminding industry insiders of his earlier reluctance on the Gladiator set.
Venice Film Festival revelation
While promoting Joker: Folie à Deux at the Venice Film Festival, Phoenix addressed his sudden departure from Haynes’s project. He conveyed a measured response, emphasizing the importance of perspective and acknowledging the absence of other involved creatives to share their side of the story.
James McAvoy steps in
Interestingly, Phoenix’s vacillation has inadvertently influenced other actors’ careers. James McAvoy shared on a podcast that he had only two weeks to prepare for his roles in Split due to Phoenix’s unexpected departure. This last-minute casting choice required McAvoy to swiftly adapt, showcasing the far-reaching implications of Phoenix’s professional decisions.
The impact on the industry
Phoenix’s actions, whether on Gladiator or more recent projects, underline the unpredictable nature of the film industry. It’s a reminder that movie productions are dynamic environments where even slight changes can ripple across the entire process. Directors and actors often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, ensuring that a film’s vision comes to life despite unforeseen challenges.
Final thoughts
The stories behind the making of Gladiator and other films featuring Phoenix offer a glimpse into the intricate web of relationships, emotions, and decisions that shape Hollywood productions. As Scott and Phoenix demonstrate, overcoming these challenges often requires a potent mix of professionalism, empathy, and unwavering commitment to the craft.
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