In case you haven’t heard, a tiny, independent film called “Inception” by a relatively unknown British director named Christopher Nolan begins a very limited rollout on Friday in select cities. Of course, we’re totally shitting you and if you’ve haven’t heard of the Leonardo DiCaprio-led mega-blockbuster by now, clearly, you’ve been living under a rock.
Anyway, the LA Times reports today that in very early stages of the film’s production the studio was considering Brad Pitt and Will Smith for the lead role in Nolan’s film. The reason? Well, like DiCaprio they have international pull, but they also have a more consistent box office track record. While this is interesting, it’s not all that surprising. “Inception” is a high-concept, expensive film not based on an easily-marketable franchise/toy/sports drink and we’re sure casting was the subject of many discussions between Nolan and the studio as they figured a way to bring the film in within a reasonable budget, while allowing him to retain his creative vision and ensuring Warner Bros. wouldn’t take a bath on the project.
We’ll soon see if the gamble will pay off. While buzz around the film has been building thanks to effusive early praise, it remains to be seen if it will connect with the general public. Undoubtedly it will be a success, but whether it’s a “Dark Knight”-sized blockbuster or “disappoints” with anything less is anybody’s guess. We’re just glad Will Smith never got near this thing. Ugh.
