Christopher Nolan is a brilliant filmmaker and there is no doubt about it. From the early years of his career, the man showed how talented he was. The maverick filmmaker has managed to deliver a masterpiece with his very second film, Memento.
Described as “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant” by the United States Library of Congress, Memento proved to be a turning point in Nolan’s career. Not just critically, but the neo-noir thriller was a big commercial success in 2000. But to make such a movie gem, the filmmaker opted for risky and daring decisions.
Those who all watched Memento became instant fans of Guy Pearce for his outstanding performance. But what if we say he wasn’t the first choice for the role of Leonard Shelby. In fact, not even a second choice. Shocking, isn’t it?
Before finalizing Guy Pearce, Christopher Nolan had several different actors in mind. For those who don’t know, Alec Baldwin was the first choice to play Leonard. But for some reason this did not happen. After Baldwin, he even considered Aaron Eckhart, Brad Pitt, Charlie Sheen and Thomas Jane for the lead role.
Interestingly, Brad Pitt was very interested in the project, but he was unable to sign the film due to other commitments. Then at one point Christopher Nolan realized that it would be great if he cast a talented but lesser-known face. The main program was to keep Memento a film on a tight budget.
And this is how Guy Pearce came on set to nail the role of Leonard Shelby!
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