‘Sopranos’ Star Was Original Choice for ‘Bad Santa’ Role
Terry Zwigoff’s “Bad Santa,” released in 2003, captivated audiences with its unique blend of humor and holiday spirit. The film achieved box-office success, quickly establishing itself as a holiday classic known for its irreverent take on Christmas.
Overview of “Bad Santa”
The plot follows Willie, played by Billy Bob Thornton, a disgruntled alcoholic posing as a department store Santa. His aim is to rob the mall with his accomplice, Marcus, portrayed by Tony Cox. Critics initially described the film as “It’s a Wonderful Life meets South Park,” highlighting its unconventional approach to holiday themes.
Production Challenges
Despite its success, “Bad Santa” faced numerous production hurdles. The concept of an R-rated Christmas film proved difficult to sell. Universal Studios dismissed the project, citing concerns over its perceived misogyny and anti-Christmas sentiment.
Miramax’s Bob Weinstein ultimately acquired the film, drawn to its controversial nature. However, production was rocky. Key cast member Brett Kelly, who played Thurman Merman, contracted chickenpox before filming, delaying his participation.
Additionally, Thornton battled personal issues, showing up drunk or hungover on several occasions. The film initially scored poorly in test screenings, prompting Weinstein to request reshoots. Director Zwigoff resisted, leading to Todd Phillips taking on an uncredited role in the reshoot process.
Casting Decisions
The casting process for “Bad Santa” was also complicated. Angus T. Jones was originally considered for the role of Thurman Merman, but ultimately did not secure the part. The search for the dwarf character included many notable actors, including Peter Dinklage and Mickey Rooney, before Tony Cox was eventually cast.
However, the largest casting challenge revolved around the lead role of Willie. Renowned actors Robert De Niro and Bill Murray were at different times considered but chose to withdraw from the project. Other names such as Sean Penn, Nicolas Cage, and Jack Nicholson were also pursued without success.
James Gandolfini: The Original Choice
Filmmakers had a distinct preference for James Gandolfini, known for his role in “The Sopranos.” The Coen brothers, who served as executive producers, even requested that screenwriters John Requa and Glenn Ficarra tailor the script to Gandolfini’s style. Their experience with him from “The Man Who Wasn’t There” led them to believe he would be a suitable fit. Ultimately, they were unable to secure his participation.
Legacy of “Bad Santa”
Despite its tumultuous production and casting issues, “Bad Santa” has solidified its place in holiday cinema. It remains a go-to film for audiences seeking a different kind of Christmas story, expertly combining comedy with a subversive take on holiday traditions.
