In the realm of Hollywood filmmaking, creative control can often be compromised. Directors may have a vision for their projects, but industry stakeholders frequently dictate casting and creative decisions. A notable example of this is the casting challenge faced by director John Boorman during the making of “Exorcist II: The Heretic.”
Christopher Walken Denied Richard Burton Role
In a surprising twist, director John Boorman initially envisioned a younger actor for the role of Father Philip Lamont, previously played by William O’Malley. Although Richard Burton was a prominent and celebrated actor, Boorman did not feel he was the right fit. He preferred either Jon Voight or Christopher Walken, both of whom he believed could bring a different energy to the character.
Director’s Perspective
Boorman expressed his reluctance regarding Burton’s casting. He stated, “I never wanted Richard Burton, really. The studio kind of imposed him.” Boorman’s initial choice, Jon Voight, ultimately declined the role due to personal commitments, considering a future as a Jesuit priest.
With Voight unavailable, Boorman turned his attention to Walken. However, at that time, Walken had not yet gained significant recognition, having not yet starred in major films like “The Deer Hunter” or “Annie Hall.” The studio deemed Walken too obscure for such an important role.
Walken’s Untapped Potential
Despite this setback, Boorman recognized Walken’s unique qualities. He noted, “There was something brittle about him that I found interesting. You always felt Walken could break at any point.” This characterization could have transformed the film in unexpected ways.
The Aftermath of Casting Decisions
Ultimately, the inclusion of Richard Burton did not help the film’s performance. “Exorcist II: The Heretic” has been widely regarded as a critical failure, contributing to the decline of both Burton’s and Boorman’s careers. The film received severe criticism, which significantly affected Linda Blair’s career trajectory as well, overshadowing her previous acclaim.
- Film Title: Exorcist II: The Heretic
- Director: John Boorman
- Original Actor: William O’Malley
- Proposed Actors: Jon Voight, Christopher Walken
- Critique: Regarded as one of the worst films ever made
In summary, John Boorman’s struggles with casting in “Exorcist II: The Heretic” illustrate the complexities of Hollywood filmmaking. His vision clashed with studio demands, impacting the film’s legacy and the careers of all involved. The case of Walken being denied the role serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the film industry.
