Jerry Bruckheimer, a name synonymous with blockbuster hits, has given us iconic movies and franchises like Top Gun, Pirates of the Caribbean, and CSI. At 77, this legendary producer continues to shape the entertainment landscape. But behind the scenes of these cinematic giants lie fascinating stories. Let’s uncover ten things you probably didn’t know about Bruckheimer’s movies.
10. American Gigolo and Giorgio Armani
American Gigolo (1980) not only launched Richard Gere into stardom but also catapulted Giorgio Armani to international fame. Gere’s role as Julian Kaye almost went to Christopher Reeve, but Paul Schrader intervened, believing Reeve wasn’t right for the part. And John Travolta briefly considered the role before also passing. Armani’s lightweight suits, designed specifically for Gere, set a new standard in men’s fashion, influencing styles worldwide. It’s a blend of impeccable tailoring and on-screen charisma that defined an era.
9. Johnny Depp and The Lone Ranger’s Wild Ride
The Lone Ranger (2013), despite the star power of Johnny Depp and the production prowess of Bruckheimer and Gore Verbinski, faced numerous hurdles. Depp’s casting as a Native American sparked controversy, though Depp claimed Native American ancestry and saw the role as a chance to “right the wrongs of the past.”
On set, Depp survived a harrowing accident when his horse unexpectedly leaped over obstacles, dragging him along before he could safely dismount. While Depp escaped unharmed, the film was marred by other incidents, including injuries to a crew member and the tragic death of a stunt diver.
8. Flashdance: Three Dancers, One Iconic Routine
Flashdance is famed for its electrifying audition scene. Jennifer Beals, the film’s star, had two body doubles for the complex dance sequences. When breakdancing elements proved too challenging, Richard “Crazy Legs” Colón stepped in. At 16, Colón donned a wig and leotard to perform some of the moves, earning residual checks to this day. The film’s soundtrack was also a massive success, despite initial negative reviews. Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” sold over two million copies after the movie’s release. Even though “Manic” missed out on an Oscar nomination due to lyric changes, the soundtrack sold over 6 million copies.
7. 12 Strong: From Commercials to Combat
12 Strong marked the collaboration between Bruckheimer and Chris Hemsworth, telling the story of the first Special Forces team deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11. Nicolai Fuglsig, previously a commercials director, made his feature film debut with this project. The film portrays the real-life experiences of Operational Detachment-Alpha 595, whose mission swiftly led to the defeat of the Taliban. Some of the soldiers were in Texas for training when the attacks happened and were immediately sent to Afghanistan.
6. Coyote Ugly: From Bartender Tales to Bar Replicas
Coyote Ugly, a feel-good romantic musical comedy, became a hit despite harsh reviews. The film was inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert’s article about her time as a Coyote Ugly bartender. Gilbert is also the author of the bestseller Eat, Pray, Love. Mario Bello, who played bar owner Lil, encountered a surprise while in South Africa: a replica of the Coyote Ugly bar, where she even participated in a “Coyote Ugly” night.
5. Enemy of the State: Upsetting the NSA
Enemy of the State, starring Will Smith and Gene Hackman, explored themes of national security and privacy. The film drew the ire of the NSA, particularly after its portrayal of the agency as a villain despite meetings with Bruckheimer and producers for a positive spin. NSA employees voiced concerns over various details in the film, from visible personal cars to intrusive helicopter photography.
4. Pearl Harbor: The New Titanic?
Pearl Harbor, despite criticisms for historical inaccuracies and dialogue, achieved significant success. It even earned a Golden Raspberry nomination while also winning an Academy Award for Best Sound Editing. Originally touted as ‘the new Titanic,’ Celine Dion declined to sing the theme song, leading Faith Hill to perform “There You’ll Be,” which received multiple award nominations. The film also shares a production connection with Titanic. The scale model work was set in Baja California, in the same water tank that James Cameron used to sink the Titanic replica.
3. Catwoman in Dangerous Minds
Dangerous Minds, inspired by LouAnne Johnson’s autobiography, was one of Don Simpson’s final projects. The movie was dedicated to his memory. Michelle Pfeiffer prepared for her role by shadowing Johnson in the classroom. Students recognized her, even in disguise, and humorously remarked on her altered appearance compared to her Catwoman persona.
2. The Reality Behind Deliver Us From Evil
Deliver Us From Evil delves into the supernatural, based on the experiences of NYPD sergeant Ralph Sarchie. Sarchie’s book, Beware The Night, details his encounters with evil, including involvement in real-life exorcisms. Eric Bana, portraying Sarchie, was deeply affected by watching a purported exorcism video during his preparation for the role.
1. Days of Thunder: Romance on the Racetrack
Days of Thunder brought Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman together, leading to their marriage six months after the film’s release. The film was inspired by Tim Richmond, a NASCAR driver who died of AIDS in 1989. Don Simpson, also on set with his girlfriend Donna Wilson, even had a role written for himself, though his performance was limited to just one line.
Jerry Bruckheimer’s films are more than just entertainment; they’re a blend of behind-the-scenes drama, unexpected collaborations, and captivating stories. From fashion statements to on-set romances, these facts add another layer of appreciation to his iconic work.
What’s your favorite Bruckheimer movie moment? Leave your comment below!
