Roland Emmerich He's been behind the camera on many blockbuster films, but when it comes to filming the NationalThe director recently admitted he was nervous about working with the “angry man.” Mel GibsonThe film, which tells the story of a farmer and his son who become involved in the American Revolutionary War, was controversial for a number of reasons, particularly for its fictionalization of real events and anti-British themes.
But for Emmerich, making the film was initially daunting because of his star’s reputation. This was especially true when he had to “diss” Gibson when he cast rising star Heath Ledger as the actor’s on-screen son. As he explained to Collider at this year’s San Diego Film Festival:
“[Mel Gibson was] He was a very angry man deep down. So I was very nervous about doing The Patriot because I was like, “Oh, Mel Gibson is an Oscar-nominated actor.” The first problem I had was that I wanted Heath Ledger instead of another actor. I had to call Heath Ledger, of course. [Mel] And I said, “I kind of like the other guy.” And he said, “Well, you're the director.” And he hung up on me. True story. I said, “Okay.” And Heath said, “Yes.” That was a yes for me. [Laughs] It was just my sister with me, and everyone wanted the other guy. And three days later, he actually told me, “You were right because this guy is going to be a big star.”
Mel Gibson returns to the spotlight after long controversy
while the National Released in 2000, Emmerich’s comments are noteworthy for the simple reason that Gibson’s career has since become more controversial than his reputation suggested 24 years ago. After being blacklisted for his outspoken views, which often included some that were described as racist, homophobic, or anti-Semitic, the “angry man” Emmerich worked with seems to have evolved into an even angrier person over the years in the eyes of many.
Still, Gibson stuck to Hollywood stubbornly, and while he wasn't as prolific as he was during the '80s and '90s, he continued to make waves for the right reasons and the wrong ones. Controversy was never far from his choice of film project, reaching its peak with 1989's “The Last Day.” Passion for Christa film that is expected to receive a delayed sequel in the coming years.
Related
How accurately does The Patriot describe the American Revolution?
Hint: It's not great…
However, whatever the world thinks of Gibson, he has never strayed far from the world of film and television. From his roles in films such as Beaverto his 2016 Oscar nomination as director. Hacksaw Ridgeand even immersion in work John Wick As part of her introduction series continentalGibson has struggled to maintain his standing in the public eye. His next film will see him back behind the camera, directing the thriller with Mark Wahlberg. Flight HazardsStarring Topher Grace, Michelle Dockery and Monieb Abhatt, the film tells the story of an air officer and a prisoner who are taken through the Alaskan wilderness by a pilot.
