New details have emerged about Guillermo del Toro’s role as the backup director for the late William Friedkin during the production of his final film, ‘The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial.’
Friedkin, the renowned director of ‘The Exorcist,’ passed away at the age of 87 in Los Angeles on August 7th. Although he managed to complete the film, he didn’t live to witness its official release. ‘The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial’ is set to premiere on Sunday, September 10th, at the Venice Film Festival.
Due to Friedkin’s advanced age, contractual obligations required him to designate a backup director before commencing production on the project. Producer Annabelle Dunne revealed this previously undisclosed information, emphasizing that such measures are common in Hollywood due to age-related concerns.
When Dunne broached the topic with Friedkin, he took time to consider his choice and subsequently informed her: “Let me think about that.” The following day, Friedkin made his decision clear, saying, “OK, honey, I have the guy. Get a pen: it’s Guillermo del Toro, you got that?”
Upon receiving the news, Dunne promptly contacted del Toro, who at the time was promoting his groundbreaking animation project, ‘Pinocchio.’ Del Toro willingly accepted the role, pledging to be present on set every day. He assured the team, “I am going to come to set every single day and sit next to you.”
According to Dunne, del Toro’s presence brought joy to everyone involved, including the actors. He consistently emphasized that the film belonged to Friedkin, considering himself a mascot for the project.
‘The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial’ is set for release on Paramount+ in the autumn following its Venice premiere and will air on Showtime in the United States. The film will not receive a theatrical release.
Adapted from Hermon Wouk’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play from 1953, the movie features Kiefer Sutherland in the pivotal role of Commander Queeg.
