I just watched the film with the actors' commentary last night, and there were plenty of veiled references to the fact that Burt Reynolds was a real jerk on the set and didn't get along with Paul Thomas Anderson.
Does anyone know of any stories of what actually happened? It would be kind of cool if the two of them got into a big shouting and shoving match outside by the pool while Burt was wearing a Speedo and a headband.
I've read most of these stories.
In defense of Burt Reynolds though and his choice of films, I absolutely love his late '70s and early '80s film choices.
Hooper, Smokey and the Bandit, Cannonball Run, Stroker Ace, etc. were all absolutely great films and a wonderful part of growing up during that period.
Hal Needham was no PTA, but he was a great director of car films. His films captured the era, lots of kids grew up with these films. Cars, and racing in particular were huge during this period.
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Paul Thomas Anderson and Burt Reynolds did not get along while filming. After filming, Anderson considered Reynolds to star in his next film "Magnolia", but Reynolds became so angry with Anderson during the film's promotional tour, he turned it down. After seeing a rough cut of the film, Reynolds became so upset that he fired his agent who recommended the film to him. Despite this, Reynolds won a Golden Globe Award and was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.
shareBurt Reynolds was one of the biggest movie stars on the planet in the 70's. By the 90's he was seen as a joke. I mean he was doing movies like Cop and a Half for God Sakes. Boogie Nights put him back in the limelight. He won numerous awards for his role including a Golden Globe for best supporting actor, and received an Academy Award nomination. I have no idea why he hated the movie when it came out? He was great in it, and the movie itself was fantastic.
shareRead this below. copy link into your browser. best thing i've ever read about Boogie Nights.
http://grantland.com/features/boogie-nights/
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