#TIL #ClintEastwood #TheOutlawJoseyWales #DirectorsGuild
🎬 Have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes drama that goes on in the making of a movie? Well, here’s a fascinating fact I recently learned: during the filming of The Outlaw Josey Wales, Clint Eastwood actually persuaded the producer to fire the director and took over the role himself! This bold move by Eastwood led to the creation of the Eastwood Rule by the Directors Guild of America, which prevents actors or producers from firing the director and then stepping into the director’s chair themselves. Let’s delve into this intriguing piece of Hollywood history and explore the implications of the Eastwood Rule.
The Outlaw Josey Wales: A Turning Point
The Outlaw Josey Wales is a classic western film released in 1976, directed by Clint Eastwood himself. However, the road to the film’s completion was far from smooth. Here’s a breakdown of the key events that led to the creation of the Eastwood Rule:
1. The Dismissal of the Director
– During the initial stages of filming, Clint Eastwood clashed with the original director, feeling that the vision for the movie was not aligning with his own.
– Eastwood, who was also producing The Outlaw Josey Wales, managed to convince the producer to terminate the director and give him the reins.
2. The Fallout and the Birth of the Eastwood Rule
– The Directors Guild of America (DGA) was outraged by Eastwood’s actions and saw them as a threat to the authority and integrity of directors in the film industry.
– In response, the DGA instituted the Eastwood Rule, creating a clear boundary between the roles of actors/producers and directors on a film set.
Impact and Legacy of the Eastwood Rule
The introduction of the Eastwood Rule had a far-reaching impact on the film industry, shaping the dynamics between actors, producers, and directors. Some notable consequences include:
1. Protection of Directorial Authority
– The Eastwood Rule serves as a safeguard for directors, ensuring that they have the autonomy and control necessary to bring their creative vision to life.
– This measure prevents powerful actors or producers from exerting undue influence over the filmmaking process, preserving the integrity of the director’s role.
2. Professional Conduct and Respect
– The Eastwood Rule underscores the importance of professionalism and mutual respect among the various stakeholders involved in a film production.
– By establishing boundaries and ethical standards, the rule promotes a collaborative and harmonious working environment on set.
The Evolution of Industry Practices
Over time, the film industry has witnessed a shift in the power dynamics between actors, producers, and directors, influenced in part by the Eastwood Rule. Here are some noteworthy developments:
1. Emphasis on Collaboration
– With the delineation of roles and responsibilities, there has been a greater emphasis on collaboration and teamwork within film crews.
– This cooperative mindset has led to the cultivation of stronger working relationships and a shared sense of purpose among all participants in the filmmaking process.
2. Recognition of Directorial Talent
– The implementation of the Eastwood Rule has also contributed to a heightened appreciation for the artistry and skill of directors.
– By upholding the authority of directors, the rule has elevated the status of directors within the industry, underscoring their pivotal role in shaping the narrative and visual expression of a film.
In conclusion, the Eastwood Rule stands as a significant milestone in the history of filmmaking, underscoring the importance of professionalism, respect, and ethical conduct in the collaborative art of cinema. This rule not only protects the integrity of directors but also fosters a culture of collaboration and creative autonomy within the industry. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of filmmaking, the principles enshrined in the Eastwood Rule serve as a guiding light, promoting a harmonious and equitable environment for all those involved in the magic of moviemaking.
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Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Outlaw_Josey_Wales
“A rift between Eastwood and Kaufman developed during the filming. Kaufman insisted on filming with a meticulous attention to detail, which caused disagreements with Eastwood, not to mention the attraction the two shared towards Locke and apparent jealousy on Kaufman’s part in regard to their emerging relationship. One evening, Kaufman insisted on finding a beer can as a prop to be used in a scene, but while he was absent, Eastwood ordered Surtees to quickly shoot the scene as light was fading and then drove away, leaving before Kaufman had returned. Soon after, filming moved to Kanab, Utah. On October 24, 1975, Kaufman was fired at Eastwood’s command by producer Bob Daley. The sacking caused an outrage amongst the Directors Guild of America and other important Hollywood executives, since the director had already worked hard on the film, including completing all of the pre-production. Pressure mounted on Warner Bros. and Eastwood to back down, and their refusal to do so resulted in a fine, reported to be around $60,000, for the violation. This resulted in the Director’s Guild passing a new rule, known as “the Eastwood Rule”, which prohibits an actor or producer from firing the director and then personally taking on the director’s role. From then on, the film was directed by Eastwood himself with Daley as the second-in-command. With Kaufman’s planning already in place, the team was able to finish making the film efficiently.”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Outlaw_Josey_Wales
Clint Eastwood did go on to be a much acclaimed director who won 5 Oscars
Right, if you want to become the director, you should win it honourably in single combat, not by firing them.
In the end, Eastwood has been proven right that taking endless takes and analyzing every detail is largely a gigantic waste of time.
We whooped ‘em again, didn’t we, Josie?
How did this apply to Tombstone and American History X?
This is probably my favorite western of all time. Clint made the right call
At least in this case Clint is actually a very good director and extremely efficient to boot.
*Man’s gotta make a livin somehow…*
Kevin Costner says you didn’t say anything about producing
I just watched this last night on the Grit channel and was pleasantly surprised to see that Chief Dan George has a part in it. Awesome actor!!
*Sometimes, trouble just follows a man..*
Is this why they technically don’t fire the director of Tombstone when Kurt Russell took over?
He’s said that his during his time on set for Paint Your Wagon, he learned everything about how NOT to make a movie.
Pull Daniel pull
Kinda of makes sense as to why Kurt Russell took over as director behind the scenes in Tombstone but left the original director in the credits. I’ve heard that Kurt basically directed Tombstone as he didn’t agree with the directors…direction? Either way it worked out for the best for all of us.
Probably why Kurt Russel couldn’t fire the director and take credit for Tombstone, or Alex Garland do the same for Dredd. They had to essentially shadow direct it and take no credit.
From what I’ve read, the dispute between Eastwood and Philip Kaufman wasn’t because of artistic reasons, but rather who was going to sleep with Sondra Locke. Eastwood won.
“I approach the producer to convince him to fire the director and let me take over”
“uhh, roll a persuasion check”
“nat 20”
Michael Cimino took his sweet time making Heaven’s Gate, and it was a disaster. Going slow and being meticulous does not always automatically mean the final product will be better.
It’s a hell of a thing, firing a director. Take away all he’s got and all he’s ever gonna have.
I think Eastwood Ravine will be a longer lasting and more important legacy.
Endeavor to persevere…
So that is why Kurt Russell was not credited with directing Tombstone even though he allegedly did after the clown in charge was fired.