Judd Apatow recently credited legendary director Steven Spielberg for turning “Anchorman” into the film we know today. In a conversation on the November 2 episode of “Sunday Sitdown,” Apatow shared insights into the movie’s production journey.
The Original Concept of “Anchorman”
The initial draft of “Anchorman,” created by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay, showcased a very different plot. The original storyline featured a group of news anchors who survived a plane crash while traveling to an anchor convention. According to Apatow, the comedic narrative revolved around their struggle for survival, humorously contemplating cannibalism.
Spielberg’s Influence
Apatow highlighted the turning point that came when Spielberg intervened. At that time, the project was facing challenges as it was placed in turnaround by DreamWorks, indicating that it was unlikely to proceed. However, Spielberg recognized the potential of Ferrell, who had recently gained popularity for his role in “Old School.”
- Spielberg asked executives about projects featuring Ferrell.
- He learned “Anchorman” was stalled and urged them to revive it.
This pivotal moment set the stage for the production of “Anchorman,” which eventually hit theaters in 2004. Apatow noted, “Spielberg was the reason Adam and Will were allowed to make ‘Anchorman.’”
The Cast of Comedians
The film featured a talented ensemble of rising stars, including Paul Rudd, David Koechner, Christina Applegate, and Steve Carell. Apatow recalled Carell’s exceptional comedic presence on set, often leaving fellow cast members in stitches.
Steve Carell’s Breakthrough
Apatow revealed that during the filming, Carell pitched an idea for a character that would later evolve into his breakout role in “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.” This character was based on a poker game scenario where Carell’s character pretended to have sexual experiences.
Advice for Aspiring Comedians
In discussing his journey, Apatow referenced his new book, “Comedy Nerd: A Lifelong Obsession in Stories and Pictures.” The book offers a candid look at both successes and failures in comedy.
- Apatow emphasizes the importance of resilience.
- He encourages aspiring comedians to find their voice and persist despite setbacks.
He remarked, “If you give up, it’s not going to work. The key is not quitting.”
