Who threatened to crush the production of 'Splash'?

Rival producer Ray Stark threatened to crush the production of 'Splash' in 1983.

How did Tom Hanks get cast in 'Splash'?

Tom Hanks auditioned for a supporting role but impressed the filmmakers enough to be cast as the lead.

When did 'Splash' release and what was its impact?

'Splash' was released in March 1984, a historically slow period, but became a top-10 hit, launching Tom Hanks' stardom and proving March's viability as a release window.

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Splash: How a Near-Failure Became a Blockbuster

22 Apr

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Summary

Hollywood rival threatened to crush the 'Splash' production.
Tom Hanks was cast as lead after auditioning for a different role.
The film overcame studio doubts and a risky March release date.

Splash: How a Near-Failure Became a Blockbuster

In 1983, producer Brian Grazer faced intense pressure from rival producer Ray Stark, who threatened to "crush" his nascent mermaid movie, 'Splash.' Stark offered a lucrative deal if Disney would abandon the project, but Disney refused. Despite initial skepticism and the studio's demand for a modest mermaid, Grazer and director Ron Howard pushed forward.

The script endured a difficult journey through multiple studios before reaching Disney, which was then considered 'minor leagues.' Executives were hesitant, but a compromise on the mermaid's attire secured the greenlight. A subsequent call from Stark to Disney chairman Ron Miller was met with a defiant refusal.