Behind the veil: 15 fascinating Facts about Runaway Bride You Probably Missed
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a beloved romantic comedy? Runaway Bride, the 1999 classic starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, isn’t just a charming tale of a woman with commitment issues; it’s a film brimming with personal touches, quirky improvisations, and even a slightly controversial scene. This article delves into the delightful details surrounding the making of Runaway Bride, offering a fresh viewpoint on this iconic movie. We’ll uncover hidden family connections, surprising on-set moments, and the story behind a cut scene that sparked quite a debate.
A Family Affair: The Marshall Touch
Director Garry Marshall was known for his collaborative spirit and penchant for including loved ones in his projects. Runaway Bride was no exception. The film became a genuine family affair,with several members of the Marshall clan taking on roles both big and small.
His son, Scott Marshall, served as the second unit director, even helming the picturesque opening scene featuring Julia Roberts on horseback. Scott didn’t stop there – he also charmed audiences as the hotel clerk hopelessly smitten with Maggie (Roberts). Daughter Kathy Marshall appeared as Cousin Cindy, a bridesmaid in the whirlwind wedding scenes, and wife barbara Sue Wells, delaying a trip to Australia, secured a line in the dress shop. As Marshall himself playfully revealed in The hollywood Interview, he “owed” his wife after her scene was cut from Pretty Woman.
Did You Know? Garry Marshall frequently cast family and friends in his films, creating a warm and familiar atmosphere on set. This practice contributed to the lighthearted and enjoyable feel of his comedies.
But the family involvement didn’t end there! Marshall himself made a cameo appearance, stepping up to the plate as the first baseman during the memorable baseball scene. This level of personal investment undoubtedly contributed to the film’s overall warmth and charm.
The Birth of a Platypus: Improvisation at its Finest
Some of the most memorable moments in Runaway Bride weren’t scripted. The now-iconic “platypus” face Maggie makes – a hilariously awkward expression – was a spontaneous creation. Marshall decided to include it after witnessing Julia Roberts playfully make the face for his visiting grandchildren. This demonstrates the power of improvisation and the director’s willingness to embrace unexpected moments of brilliance.
Pro Tip: Great comedic timing frequently enough comes from unexpected moments. Don’t be afraid to experiment and allow actors to improvise – you might just capture cinematic gold!
The Cut Scene Controversy: A Delicate Balance
Even a seemingly lighthearted film like Runaway Bride faced challenges during post-production. A scene intended for the end credits sequence proved surprisingly divisive. The scene depicted two women jogging with a dog, culminating in a young boy passing by, prompting the grandmother to discard the dog in a garbage can.Marshall explained to EW that the reaction was sharply divided. “Half the audience, the something About Mary group, screamed laughing, and the other half was, ‘Why did you kill the dog?'” Recognizing the potential for negative backlash, Marshall shot four choice scenes and ultimately opted for a different ending. This highlights the careful consideration filmmakers must give to audience sensitivity and the importance of test screenings.
| Feature | Runaway Bride (1999) | Pretty Woman (1990) |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Garry Marshall | Garry Marshall |
| Starring | Julia Roberts, Richard Gere |