Waterworld Disaster Forced Kevin Costner to Turn Down a Role in Iconic Movie
Waterworld was a science fiction film released in 1995, starring Kevin Costner as its lead character.
A mutant mariner who navigates the post-apocalyptic world covered by water. Despite being a box office success, the film was panned and considered one of the biggest flops in Hollywood history.
This negative reception had a significant impact on Costner's career and personal life. Causing him to turn down several promising opportunities. Including one of the most notable roles in cinema history.
Why Waterworld failed
The production of Waterworld was plagued by many problems, including budget overruns, re-shoots, and conflicts between the cast and crew.
The film was also marketed as the most expensive movie ever made, which led to high expectations. But when it was finally released, it received negative reviews from both critics and audiences.
Many cited the film's over-the-top action sequences and weak storyline as major shortcomings.
How Costner missed the role of a lifetime
Costner was known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking long before Waterworld, and the film's flop only added to his reputation as a difficult person to work with.
At the time, he was reportedly devastated by the Waterworld's reception leading him to turn down several promising projects. Including the role of Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption.
The Shawshank Redemption is considered one of the greatest/must-watch films of all time. As is the role of Andy Dufresne, considered one of the most iconic of modern cinema.
The film tells the story of a man wrongfully convicted of murder and his friendship with a fellow prisoner. The film was a critical and commercial success. Receiving seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Had Costner accepted the role and not been hindered by Waterworld delays, he would have given one of the most memorable performances of his career and cemented his status as one of Hollywood's leading actors.
Costner after Waterworld
Waterworld was a disaster for Kevin Costner, both professionally and personally. The film's negative impact on his reputation caused him to turn down a career-defining role.
Still, Costner has gone on to have a successful career even so. After a couple of movie missteps, he was praised for his work as a director and actor in Open Range (2003).
As well as his roles in The Upside of Anger (2006), Mr. Brooks (2007), Man of Steel (2013), and other ongoing steady roles afterwards. Most recently he starred in and produced the first regular TV role of his career, in the hit Paramount show Yellowstone.
Yet for all of Costner's continuing success, the negative impact of Waterworld still serves as a cautionary tale for actors and filmmakers in Hollywood.