Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt, known to audiences from 7 to 70, has always been a captivating presence on screen. However, have you ever wondered about the man behind the camera? Dive into the intriguing revelations made by the director of 'Legends of the Fall' that are creating a stir in Hollywood! Explore the details below.
'Legends of the Fall' is based on Jim Harrison's story, bringing Brad Pitt face to face with Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn, Julia Ormond, and Henry Thomas. The epic tale unfolds against the backdrop of World War I, following the story of three brothers and their father. The film received three Academy Award nominations and won for John Toll's cinematography.
Director Ed Zwick's new memoir, 'Hits, Flops, and Other Illusions: My Fortysomething Years in Hollywood,' sheds light on the tensions during the production of the 1994 Western epic 'Legends of the Fall.' Zwick writes about the strained relationship after Brad Pitt was selected for the role of Tristan Ludlow following Tom Cruise's exit. Pitt's agent allegedly informed Zwick that Brad wanted to leave after the first table read.
'Calming Brad down was challenging. It was the first sign of the deep emotions boiling within Brad. He seemed calm at first, but could be explosive when angered, as we were reminded several times during the shoot,' writes Zwick.
'Situations don't always go smoothly, no matter how experienced or sensitive a director you are,' says Zwick. He mentions Pitt being 'angry when having to shoot a scene where he had to display deep emotions.' Zwick pushed for Brad to reveal more, but Pitt resisted. Despite acknowledging the current embarrassment, Zwick confesses that back then, a severe argument erupted on set due to his persistence.
Despite clashes, Zwick emphasizes Brad's dedication, describing him as 'a direct, honest person, filled with fun and great humor. He was completely committed to doing his best.'
After completing the film, Zwick recalls showing the final edit to Pitt, who expressed dissatisfaction. Pitt believed Zwick didn't show enough of his character's madness. Zwick apologizes for the disagreements and mentions Pitt's displeasure with being named 'Sexiest Man of the Year' by People magazine.
Looking back, Zwick apologizes to Brad Pitt for the cuts and disputes on set. He expresses regret for not meeting Pitt's expectations regarding the portrayal of Tristan's madness. Zwick concludes with an apology and a note about Pitt's displeasure with the 'Sexiest Man of the Year' title.