River Phoenix got himself on the film, recommended Dermot Mulroney and Anthony Clark, wrote some of his songs and brought in the duet between him and Samantha Mathis. It was his last film. She is still working, lately in Billions, mainly on TV, though was also in The American President; deserved better. The romantic triangle referred to in The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance extends into the story, which is credited to Carol Heikkinen though undoubtedly has Peter's stamp. (Allan Moyle also came in to rewrite.)
When Peter asked River how he was going to convey his character's pent-up violence, this feeling of danger, he thought for a moment, then said 'Silence', which the director thought was 'brilliant'. In fact Peter didn't really 'meet' the real River Phoenix until after filming was completed, so much in character did he remain. The actor particularly enjoyed the long takes without a cut.
K.T. Oslin is rather good as the bar owner - she herself was a C&W singer. And Bullock has a good comedy touch.
It's a lovely film. In interview, Peter's also interested in what happens after the film is over - it could go many ways.
No comments:
Post a Comment