Hollywood star John Malkovich has given numerous acclaimed performances, each bringing something fresh to the screen, even when it came to playing a satirical version of himself in the 1999 fantasy comedy film, Being John Malkovich.
The film follows a puppeteer who finds a secret door to the Hollywood star’s mind, leading to a series of bizarre and comedic events. It received positive acclaim along with three Oscar nominations. However, Malkovich later revealed that he initially suggested the film to be about the action star Tom Cruise.
Being John Malkovich Star Wanted the Film to be About Tom Cruise
Charlie Kaufman’s script for Being John Malkovich faced numerous rejections before the titular star was attached to the project. It was only after Kaufman sent the script to Francis Ford Coppola that Spike Jonze came on board as director.
However, when the actor himself learned about the movie, he was puzzled by the idea of the film being titled after him. In an interview with The Independent, the actor revealed his reaction to learning about the film.
“Why not ‘Being Tom Cruise,” he recalled questioning, suggesting that the film should feature a more popular and loved star like Tom Cruise. After Kaufman clarified that he had no intention to make any changes, Malkovich grew doubtful about the future of the film.
He recalled,
Charlie told me quite clearly that he had no desire to change it, and that [Spike Jonze] was going to direct, so I said OK. To be honest, I never actually thought that it would get made.
Amid the ongoing anticipation for the film, the Con Air actor ultimately agreed to star in the movie and later expressed his satisfaction with being part of the project.
Spike Jonze Revealed No Backup Plan for Casting John Malkovich
While John Malkovich was doubtful about being cast in the movie, the filmmaker Spike Jonze later revealed that he was determined to have him in the movie.
And despite immense pressure from producers to consider someone other than the Oscar-nominated actor, he continued the project with Malkovich only. He recalled the whole process, saying,
It was never anybody else — Though we had a lot of pressure from our producers and financiers to think of backups… No. It’s funny – it took a long time to get to meet with him.
He also recalled the actor questioning his casting, instead of a big name like the Mission: Impossible star. However, Jonze also applauded the actor for fully committing to the role, noting how Malkovich’s accepting the offer was a bold move.
I don’t think I realized at the time what a brave thing that was — We were in between takes one day, and he was naked except for a blanket around him and was explaining to a friend what the plot of the movie was – and it started hitting me how crazy it was that he did this movie.
He also acknowledged the risk Malkovich took by starring in the movie, noting that having his name in the title would make the failure particularly personal, whereas if the film succeeded, he would be permanently associated with the character.
Being John Malkovich is available on Prime Video.
