Films That Pulled Through Changing Directors and Thrived

Throughout the wizardry of filmmaking, few stories stand out quite like that of an unconventional twist where films were able to thrive despite switching directors mid-production. This phenomenon, often attributed to chance or fate, has instead become a testament to the resilience and flexibility of cinematic art.

William Keighley's "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938)

One of the earliest and most spectacular examples comes from the classic Hollywood era. The Adventures of Robin Hood began with William Keighley, the in-charge director for the monumental 1938 epic. Keighley directed the on-location action, resulting in dynamic and engaging scenes that set the tone for the film. However, in a typical Hollywood move, the studio, Jack Warner, deemed Keighley's approach unsatisfactory and his subsequent scenes were cut. Chief among these issues were the action set-pieces that did not meet the studio's soaring expectations.

Enter Michael Curtiz, a seasoned director known for his expertise in action. His tenure as director saw the completion of The Adventures of Robin Hood. The result was a cinematic masterpiece that cemented the film's place in cinema history. This switch from technical brilliance to action domination was pivotal. While famous thespian Errol Flynn initially balked at Curtiz taking over, their working relationship eventually showed signs of improvement, and the final product was far superior to the initial concept.

David Fincher's Involvement in a Turbulent Production

Another remarkable case is the film that few producers have managed to rescue from chaos, yet director David Fincher was able to breathe life back into it. An unnamed film project, which unfortunately remains generally unknown, had faced significant challenges. Amidst the turmoil, Fincher stepped in and directed its eventual triumph. His ability to steer the project towards a unique and enduring legacy is a testament to his skills as an artistic director. His intervention ensured the film exceeded expectations and left a lasting impression on audiences.

Redline: A Personal Perspective

A personal insight into this phenomenon is provided by Redline, an independent film that my friend and writing mentor, Andy Cheng, was brought in to direct when the original director left the production. Andy, barely having time to read the script, was thrust into the director's spot. The film's success, while not immediately apparent, marked a significant achievement in independent filmmaking. Andy's involvement, despite the tight deadline, underscores the talents that can rise to challenge in the right conditions.

The Complex Case of Spartacus

Spartacus, an epic film from 1960, presents an intriguing narrative of quadroon switching and film legacy. The film's opening set in the Copper Mines of Libya introduced Peter Ustinov as part of the storyline. However, during the initial stages of production under director Anthony Mann, a falling out between Kirk Douglas and Mann led Douglas to fire the director. Mann had issues with the studio's demands for action set-pieces, and with production briefly on hold, Douglas turned to his reliable collaborator Stanley Kubrick.

Kubrick, who had recently worked on Paths of Glory with Douglas, jumped at the opportunity, suggesting they could resume shooting early the following week. This decision was a stroke of genius, not only saving the film from potential financial disaster but also resulting in a profit. Spartacus became the bridge that demonstrated Kubrick's capability to handle major egos and in-film dynamics. It's worth noting that Kubrick did not include this film in his "filmography," as he considered it a collaboration rather than a directorial effort.

Regardless of his role, Kubrick's contribution to the film's aesthetic and narrative richness was significant. The film, now a classic, stands as a testament to the art's remarkable resilience and the ingenuity of its creators.

These stories of dramatic pivots and their successful outcomes highlight the adaptability of filmmakers and the influence directors can have on a film's direction and reception. Such examples remind us that even in the face of adversity, the potential for cinematic greatness can still emerge, provided that the right hands are guiding the process.