How Rob Reiner Made The Movie
Few films hold the courtroom drama crown quite like ‘A Few Good Men.’ Aaron Sorkin’s electrifying script, combined with Rob Reiner’s masterful direction and a powerhouse cast, delivers a captivating legal thriller that keeps audiences on edge. But what sets this film apart from others in its genre? Delve into the fascinating story behind the making of ‘A Few Good Men’ to discover its unique aspects and innovations that make it stand out in courtroom dramas.
The Story: A Cry for Justice
Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise) and Lieutenant Commander Joanne Galloway (Demi Moore) are tasked with defending two Marines, PFC Harold Dawson (Wolfgang Bodison) and PFC Louden Downey (James Marshall), accused of murdering a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay. As they investigate, they uncover a hazing ritual called a “code red” that went tragically wrong. Their pursuit of justice leads them to Colonel Nathan Jessup (Jack Nicholson), a decorated officer who may hold the key to the truth, but protecting the Marines’ code of silence proves a formidable obstacle.
The Birth of ‘A Few Good Men’: A Journey of Creativity and PerseveranceThe electrifying script of “A Few Good Men” wasn’t born overnight in a Hollywood writer’s room. Its journey began with a personal connection and blossomed through sheer determination. Here’s a look at the fascinating origin and development of the script:
A Sister’s Inspiration: The spark for “A Few Good Men” ignited during a phone conversation between Aaron Sorkin and his sister, Deborah. Deborah was a law school graduate who joined the Navy’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). During her service, she encountered a case involving Marines criminally charged in the killing of a fellow soldier in a hazing incident. This real-life experience provided the foundation for the film’s central conflict.
Cocktail Napkin Chronicles: Inspired by his sister’s story, Sorkin began crafting the script not in a fancy office, but while working as a bartender at the Palace Theatre on Broadway. Between taking orders and serving drinks, Sorkin jotted down ideas and dialogue on cocktail napkins, stuffing them in his pockets. His humble beginnings laid the groundwork for the sharp, witty dialogue that would become a hallmark of “A Few Good Men.”
The Power of Perseverance
Aaron Sorkin faced numerous hurdles during the script’s development of ‘A Few Good Men.’ Initially conceived as a stage play, Sorkin was relatively unknown in the Hollywood scene and had to navigate the challenging transition from theater to film. His journey was difficult, but his determination and talent prevailed.
One of the primary obstacles was convincing established Hollywood players of the script’s potential. Sorkin’s script, rich in legal jargon and courtroom drama, needed to be compelling to industry insiders and a broader audience. He faced skepticism about whether a story centered on military justice could captivate moviegoers.
Additionally, Sorkin had to deal with the complexities of expanding the narrative from a stage play to a full-length film script. This involved fleshing out characters, adding scenes, and ensuring that the intense dialogue-driven style of the play translated effectively to the screen.
Sorkin also needed more support regarding the casting choices and the film’s direction. There were doubts about Tom Cruise’s ability to carry the weight of the lead role and concerns about whether Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Colonel Jessup would resonate with audiences.
Despite these challenges, Sorkin’s unwavering belief in the story and the strong support from director Rob Reiner helped push the project forward. Reiner’s vision and understanding of Sorkin’s script were crucial in overcoming the roadblocks and ensuring that the narrative maintained its intensity and engagement.
Ultimately, Sorkin’s perseverance paid off, resulting in a film that became a critical and commercial success and established him as a formidable screenwriter in Hollywood. The success of ‘A Few Good Men’ also catapulted the careers of its cast and crew, with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson earning critical acclaim for their performances and Rob Reiner solidifying his reputation as a director of compelling dramas. The film’s impact on the industry and its lasting relevance make ‘A Few Good Men’ worth exploring.
From Stage to Screen: Before captivating audiences on the silver screen, “A Few Good Men” found its voice on the stage. Sorkin adapted the script into a play that premiered on Broadway in 1989. The play’s success, featuring Tom Hulce and a powerhouse cast, caught the attention of Hollywood producers, validating Sorkin’s vision.
A Star is Born (as a Screenwriter): The play’s success on Broadway significantly boosted the script’s appeal. Impressed by Sorkin’s talent, Producer David Brown secured the film rights before the play’s official premiere. This preemptive move proved to be a wise decision, laying the groundwork for the film’s development.
Sorkin’s Signature Style Emerges: “A Few Good Men” marked Aaron Sorkin’s first major Hollywood screenplay. With this script, Sorkin established his signature style, characterized by fast-paced dialogue, sharp wit, and a keen understanding of legal intricacies. The success of “A Few Good Men” launched Sorkin’s career, paving the way for him to become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after screenwriters.
The origin story of ‘A Few Good Men’ is a testament to the power of a compelling idea and unwavering determination. From a phone conversation to scribbled notes on cocktail napkins, Sorkin’s script transformed into a courtroom drama that resonated with audiences and sparked conversations about military justice and the ethics of hazing. The movie’s impact on moviegoers and its lasting relevance make ‘A Few Good Men’ a film worth exploring.
Rob Reiner’s Commitment to Overcoming Obstacles
Rob Reiner’s attachment to “A Few Good Men” was driven by his passion for compelling storytelling and his belief in Aaron Sorkin’s script. Reiner, known for his successful films like “Stand by Me” and “When Harry Met Sally…,” saw the potential in Sorkin’s courtroom drama and was determined to bring it to the big screen. However, his journey to get the movie greenlit was fraught with challenges.
Convincing the Studio: Reiner faced initial skepticism from the studio executives at Columbia Pictures. They were uncertain about the commercial viability of a legal drama set within the military, especially one based on a stage play. Reiner had to use his reputation and previous successes to persuade the studio of the film’s potential. His unwavering confidence in the story and its powerful themes of duty, honor, and justice ultimately convinced the executives to take a chance on the project.
Casting Challenges: One of the significant hurdles was casting the lead roles. Tom Cruise was not the first choice for Lt. Daniel Kaffee; the studio had reservations about his ability to carry the weight of the character. Reiner, however, believed in Cruise’s talent and persistence. He fought to cast Cruise, knowing that his star power and acting skills would bring depth and charisma to the role. Additionally, there were concerns about casting Jack Nicholson as Col. Nathan Jessup. Nicholson’s larger-than-life persona and intensity were seen as potential risks. Reiner had to assure the studio that Nicholson could deliver a nuanced performance that balanced his formidable presence with the character’s complexities.
Balancing Creative Vision and Studio Demands: Reiner navigated the delicate balance between his creative vision and the studio’s commercial expectations. The studio wanted to ensure the film would appeal to a broad audience, which meant making certain compromises. Reiner worked tirelessly to maintain the integrity of Sorkin’s script while addressing the studio’s concerns. This included refining the screenplay to emphasize the human drama and moral dilemmas at the heart of the story, ensuring it was accessible and engaging.
Production Logistics: Filming “A Few Good Men” presented logistical challenges, particularly recreating Guantanamo Bay and the military courtroom. Reiner and his production team decided to film primarily in Los Angeles, using detailed set designs and careful cinematography to depict the setting authentically. This required meticulous planning to ensure the film’s visual and atmospheric elements were convincing.
Financial Constraints: The film’s budget was another obstacle Reiner had to manage. While not a low-budget movie, it wasn’t afforded the lavish budgets of major action blockbusters. Reiner had to make strategic decisions about where to allocate funds, focusing on securing top-tier talent like Cruise, Nicholson, and Moore, and ensuring high production values for crucial scenes. His experience and resourcefulness as a director helped him maximize the budget effectively.
Critical Expectations: Given Reiner’s track record of successful films, there were high expectations for “A Few Good Men.” He was under pressure to deliver a movie that performed well at the box office and garnered critical acclaim. Reiner’s dedication to quality and his collaborative approach with the cast and crew were crucial in meeting these expectations.
Rob Reiner’s commitment to “A Few Good Men” was instrumental in overcoming the numerous obstacles to its production. His vision, perseverance, and belief in the story’s power ensured the film was greenlit and became a critically acclaimed and commercially successful classic. Reiner’s efforts underscore the challenges and triumphs of bringing a compelling narrative to the screen.
Casting the Code: Finding the Perfect Marines
The casting of “A Few Good Men” was crucial to its success. It wasn’t about finding big names but about actors who could embody the complex characters and confidently deliver Sorkin’s sharp dialogue. Here’s a deeper dive into the strategic decisions that brought this iconic cast together:
Tom Cruise: A Reluctant Kaffee: Initially, Cruise hesitated about the role of Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, fearing comparisons to his role in “Risky Business.” However, director Rob Reiner’s persistence paid off. Cruise ultimately delivered a nuanced performance, showcasing Kaffee’s ambition and gradual transformation as he uncovers the truth.
Jack Nicholson: Toning Down the Intensity: Jack Nicholson was a natural choice for the intimidating Colonel Nathan Jessup. However, Reiner encouraged him to dial down his signature intensity for a more layered portrayal. This resulted in a chillingly complex character who is both powerful and vulnerable. Supposedly, some of Jessup’s most memorable lines, like the infamous “You can’t handle the truth!” were partially improvised by Nicholson, adding an extra layer of authenticity to his performance.
Demi Moore: Power and Vulnerability: Demi Moore’s casting as Lieutenant Commander Joanne Galloway was another critical decision. She masterfully balanced Galloway’s strength and vulnerability, portraying a JAG officer determined to uphold justice while revealing her emotional investment in the case. Moore spent time with real-life female military lawyers to prepare for the role, ensuring her portrayal was grounded in reality.
Finding the Humanity in the Accused: Wolfgang Bodison and James Marshall were tasked with portraying the accused Marines, PFC Harold Dawson and PFC Louden Downey. Finding actors who could convey the innocence and fear of young soldiers caught in a deadly situation was critical. Both actors delivered heartfelt performances that humanized the Marines, adding depth to the film’s exploration of loyalty and the dangers of blind obedience.
Beyond the leads, the supporting cast is equally impressive—Kiefer Sutherland intensely portrays 2nd Lt. Jonathan Kendrick, and Kevin Bacon shines as Captain Jack Ross.
By carefully considering talent and character fit, the casting team assembled an ensemble that could breathe life into Sorkin’s witty dialogue and complex characters. The chemistry between Cruise, Nicholson, Moore, and the supporting cast is palpable, making “A Few Good Men” a genuinely compelling courtroom drama.
The Success of “A Few Good Men”
“A Few Good Men” achieved significant commercial and critical success upon its release. The film grossed over $240 million worldwide, a substantial return on its production budget of approximately $40 million. This financial success was complemented by widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike.
The film’s powerful performances, particularly those of Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore, received high praise. Nicholson’s portrayal of Colonel Nathan R. Jessup was especially lauded, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film’s screenplay, adapted by Aaron Sorkin from his stage play, was highly praised for its sharp, intelligent dialogue and compelling courtroom drama.
“A Few Good Men” garnered several prestigious award nominations, including four Academy Awards, Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Jack Nicholson, Best Sound, and Best Film Editing. Additionally, the film received four Golden Globe nominations, including Best Motion Picture—Drama, Best Director for Rob Reiner, and Best Screenplay for Aaron Sorkin.
The film’s success extended beyond awards and box office numbers and left a lasting impact on popular culture, with lines like “You can’t handle the truth!” becoming iconic in the lexicon of movie quotes. The film solidified the careers of its leading actors and marked Aaron Sorkin’s arrival as a significant screenwriting talent in Hollywood.
Overall, “A Few Good Men” remains a classic of the legal drama genre, celebrated for its performances, writing, and direction. It continues to be a benchmark for courtroom dramas in cinema.
Trivia Tidbits: Did You Know?
Inspired by Reality: The original play “A Few Good Men” was inspired by conversations Aaron Sorkin had with his sister, who was a JAG attorney. She shared with him a story about a hazing incident at Guantanamo Bay, which became the foundation for the plot of both the play and the movie.
Jack’s Nicholson Impression: During Kaffee’s closing arguments, Tom Cruise delivered an unscripted impersonation of Jack Nicholson. This now-iconic moment added a spontaneous and authentic touch to his performance.
A Star is Born: Demi Moore, already an established actress, delivered a powerful performance as Lieutenant Commander JoAnne Galloway. This role further cemented her status as a Hollywood A-lister, showcasing her versatility and strength as an actress.
The Sorkin Touch: “A Few Good Men” marked Aaron Sorkin’s first major Hollywood screenplay. His sharp and intelligent writing style, characterized by fast-paced dialogue, became a hallmark of his career, leading to future successes in both film and television.
Counting the “Sirs”: The word “sir” is uttered 164 times throughout the film, reflecting the strict adherence to military protocol and adding to the authenticity of the courtroom and military scenes.
Baseball Blunder: In the movie, Lt. Kaffee is seen watching baseball games on TV. However, the games shown are from seasons that predate the film’s timeline, creating a slight historical inaccuracy.
Uniform Faux Pas: Viewers might notice a wardrobe inconsistency involving Markinson’s Sam Browne belt. At one point, the strap is worn incorrectly, which eagle-eyed military enthusiasts quickly spotted.
Date Debate: Throughout the film, dates are presented in the American format (MM/DD/YYYY) but occasionally include ordinal numbers (e.g., “1st” or “2nd”), which is not standard practice, leading to minor inconsistencies.
Stage to Screen: The film is based on Aaron Sorkin’s successful play of the same name, which premiered on Broadway in 1989. The transition from stage to screen allowed Sorkin to expand on the story and characters.
Cruise Control: Tom Cruise was initially hesitant to take on the role of Lt. Daniel Kaffee. However, director Rob Reiner’s persistence and vision for the character convinced Cruise to accept, leading to one of his most memorable performances.
Nicholson’s Nuance: Jack Nicholson reportedly toned down his signature intensity at Rob Reiner’s request. This approach created a more layered and nuanced portrayal of Colonel Jessup, adding depth to his character.
A Legal Eagle’s Eye: To perfect Lt. Kaffee’s courtroom demeanor, Tom Cruise shadowed real-life lawyers. This research helped him deliver a convincing and authentic portrayal of a military lawyer.
A Touch of Cuba: Although the film is set in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, the primary filming location was Los Angeles. The production team skillfully recreated the Guantanamo setting to maintain authenticity.
Sibling Inspiration: Aaron Sorkin drew inspiration for Lt. Kaffee’s character from his brother, who is also an attorney. This personal connection added depth to Kaffee’s character development.
Cruise & Nicholson: A Meeting of Minds: Despite initial friction between Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson, the two actors developed a mutual respect during filming. Their dynamic contributed to the intense and memorable courtroom scenes.
Demi’s Dedication: Demi Moore spent time with real-life female military lawyers to portray a JAG officer accurately. This preparation helped her deliver a realistic and compelling performance.
A Touch of Improv: The now-famous line “You can’t handle the truth!” was partially improvised by Jack Nicholson. This moment of spontaneity became one of the most iconic lines in film history.
The Power of Dialogue: Aaron Sorkin’s fast-paced, witty dialogue became a hallmark of the film. His unique writing style added tension and engagement to the courtroom scenes, elevating the narrative.
Courtroom Clashes: The courtroom scenes were meticulously choreographed to build tension and drama. Each movement and line delivery was carefully planned to maximize the impact of the pivotal moments.
A Lasting Legacy: “A Few Good Men” remains a critically acclaimed classic, praised for its performances, script, and direction. The film’s exploration of themes such as duty, honor, and justice resonates with audiences today.
Goofs
These goofs and errors highlight the complexities of accurately portraying military life and courtroom procedures in a film. While minor, they reflect the importance of attention to detail in maintaining authenticity and realism in cinematic storytelling.
- Lt. Kaffee Misstates the Base: In a conversation, Lt. Daniel Kaffee refers to Guantanamo Bay as a “Navy base.” While commonly referred to as such, the official designation is a U.S. Naval Station. This distinction is significant within the military vocabulary and would not be misstated by a well-versed officer.
- Rank Insignia Error: Lt. Cmdr. JoAnne Galloway’s rank insignia appears on the wrong side of her uniform in one scene. Military uniforms have strict regulations on insignia placement, and such an error would be quickly corrected in real life.
- Protocol Mistake: Throughout the film, Lt. Kaffee occasionally fails to address superior officers with the proper military courtesies, such as saluting or using the correct titles. This breaches military etiquette and undermines the disciplined structure of military interactions.
- Mispronunciation of Names: Several characters incorrectly pronounce Pfc. William Santiago’s last name is “San-ti-ago” instead of “San-tee-ago.” Accurate pronunciation of names is crucial in military protocol to maintain respect and professionalism.
- Incorrect Salutes: Some salutes depicted in the film should have been properly executed. Military salutes are precise and standardized, and superior officers would notice and correct deviations, such as sloppy hand positions or incorrect angles.
- Col. Jessup’s Handcuffs: When Col. Jessup is being handcuffed in the climactic courtroom scene, the position of the handcuffs changes between shots. Continuity in such a dramatic moment is crucial for maintaining the scene’s realism and intensity.
- Improper Uniform Fit: Lt. Kaffee’s dress uniform is shown fitting poorly in certain scenes, with wrinkles and misaligned seams. Military uniforms are tailored for a perfect fit, and military personnel would address such discrepancies immediately.
- Sam Browne Belt: In one scene, Col. Markinson wears his Sam Browne belt incorrectly, with the belt buckle misaligned. The Sam Browne belt is a ceremonial item worn with dress uniforms, and its incorrect placement would be a significant uniform violation.
- Medal Placement: Capt. Ross’s dress uniform displays medals in the wrong order of precedence. Military decorations are meticulously arranged, and errors in placement would be immediately noticed and corrected.
- Improper Cover (Hat): Characters wear their covers (hats) indoors during non-ceremonial occasions. According to military protocol, covers are typically removed indoors unless the individual is under arms or part of a formal ceremony.
- Courtroom Behavior: Lt. Kaffee’s casual demeanor in the courtroom, such as leaning back in his chair and displaying relaxed body language, is unprofessional. Military courtrooms adhere to strict etiquette, which would be considered disrespectful.
- Date Formatting: The film displays dates using mixed formats, combining MM/DD/YYYY with ordinal numbers like “1st” or “2nd.” Official military documents adhere to consistent date formats to avoid confusion.
- Improper Salutation: Lt. Kaffee occasionally omits proper salutations, such as addressing officers simply by their rank without the accompanying “sir” or “ma’am.” This breach of etiquette would be considered disrespectful and unprofessional.
- Chain of Command Confusion: At times, characters misstate their positions within the chain of command, creating confusion about authority and hierarchy. Accurate representation of command structure is essential in the military.
- Uniform Buttoning: Capt. Ross’s uniform is buttoned incorrectly, with buttons misaligned with the corresponding holes. Military personnel take great pride in their appearance, and such an error would be corrected immediately.
- Courtroom Procedures: Some courtroom procedures depicted are inaccurate, such as the timing and manner of objections and witness examinations. Military courts follow strict protocols that differ from civilian courts, and deviations would be noted by those familiar with the system.
- Vehicle Discrepancy: Modern vehicles are seen driving on the base in some scenes, which do not match the film’s early 1990s setting. Period accuracy is crucial for maintaining the film’s historical context.
- Hand Position: During Col. Jessup’s cross-examination, Lt. Kaffee’s hand positions on the table change between shots, indicating a continuity error. Such inconsistencies can distract viewers and detract from the scene’s intensity.
- Rank Misstatement: In one scene, a character incorrectly refers to a Major as a Captain, a severe error in military settings. Accurate rank identification is fundamental to military discipline and respect.
- Improper Address: Col. Jessup addresses a subordinate by their first name in a formal setting, which is uncommon and unprofessional. In the military, first names are rarely used in formal contexts, emphasizing rank and last names to maintain authority and respect.
Conclusion
“A Few Good Men” is a captivating legal drama that continues to enthrall audiences decades after its release. The film’s success is a testament to the talent in front of and behind the camera. From Aaron Sorkin’s electrifying script to Rob Reiner’s masterful direction, every element contributes to the film’s lasting impact.