Although A-list actors get the best scripts in Hollywood, this can make things that much more stressful, especially when it comes to choosing the right film. We've seen several actors regret their choices. Take Eddie Murphy, as the comedian turned down roles in both Who Framed Reoger Rabbit, and Ghostbusters.Tom Holland was guilty of passing on 1917, while Matthew McConaughey rejected Guardians of the Galaxy, in favor of a role he thought would become a franchise in itself with, The Dark Tower... but we all know that didn't happen. As for Kevin Costner, he had a chance to appear in one of the greatest movies ever made. However, at the time, a certain film took up all his efforts, and looking back, it might've hurt his career.
The Production For Waterworld Was A Disaster Behind The Scenes For Kevin Costner And The Crew
With director Kevin Reynolds in place, Waterworld finally got its release in late-July of 1995. The action sci-fi film was one Kevin Costner took very seriously, and was a passion project for the actor. However, despite his optimism for the film and its potential, things were a disaster behind the scenes.
According to Far Out Magazine, not only was the budget for the film increasing by the day, but the working conditions weren't safe either, as Costner, who was also a producer, was working 12-hour days, six days a week.
"Waterworld had turned from a passion project into a mess, and Costner was carrying most of the burden on his own shoulders," the magazine writes.
Not only was the film a lengthy and stressful process for the actor, but it would also cause him to miss out on a notable role. Although The Shawshank Redemption didn't put up the same numbers as Waterworld, it would turn into a cult-classic in the years that followed it release, and arguably among the greatest movies ever.
Kevin Costner Was Forced To Turn Down The Shawshank Redemption Because Of Production Delays
The Shawshank Redemption told quite the story, with Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins as the stars of the iconic film and one that is considered among the best ever. However, the role of Andy almost looked very different on multiple instances, with high profile names considered for the role.
Among the names to be considered, included Kevin Costner. Ultimately the actor was forced to pull out due to delays thanks to Waterworld. In addition, according to Far Out Magazine, The Shawshank Redemption had delays of its own, which made delaying the project even longer for Costner impossible.
"The latter film had its own somewhat troubled pre-production history at that point, so delaying the film to accommodate Costner was not an option. Despite being the perfect candidate, Costner was ultimately forced to pass on the role of Andy to shepherd Waterworld to completion," Far Out writes.
Tom Cruise was another major name considered for the role. Cruise would even read for the part but eventually, creative differences with director Frank Darabont caused the end of his potential role in the film.
As for Costner, well the reception for Waterworld wasn't exactly what he had expected.
Waterworld Received Mixed Reviews And Didn't Generate The Box Office Numbers Expected
Waterworld was hurt by expectations, along with delays that took place behind the scenes. In addition, its $175 million budget was a ridiculous number at the time, With such a budget, the film was expected to make triple the amount. It would settle on a recoup of the investment, along with a decent profit, as the film made $264 million.
Looking back at the film, Forbes states that the film did more harm than good for Costner's career, despite the fact that the end product really wasn't all that bad.
Forbes writes, "Waterworld remains a pretty good movie that couldn’t carry the burden of its infamous budget.""It was a disappointment in relation to cost, a cautionary tale, and one of the last purely practical mega-movies. It did real damage to the idea of Kevin Costner as a movie star. But it was not a flop."
Credit to Costner who is thriving these days thanks to his role as John Dutton on Yellowstone.