It has been 15 years since director Steven Soderbergh and star George Clooney released the remake of the classic film “Ocean’s Eleven” from 1960. The 2001 film achieved tremendous success and remains one of the most iconic heist movies far from its original version. It also featured an impressive lineup of stars, including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon, and Brad Pitt. Below, we present 11 interesting facts you may not know about this captivating heist film:
1. George Clooney Wasn’t the First Choice for Danny Ocean
In fact, the role was initially offered to Bruce Willis, but due to scheduling conflicts, he declined. However, he did make a cameo in the sequel.
2. George Clooney Bet $20 on Julia Roberts
Clooney even wrote a note saying: “I heard she’s getting $20 million for a movie,” implying that Roberts was the highest-paid actress in Hollywood at that time, earning $20 million per film.
3. Actors Enjoyed Gambling in Las Vegas
When not filming, the cast often played blackjack, and there was a time when George Clooney lost 25 consecutive hands. Although it remains unclear who among them won the most, Clooney mentioned it was Matt Damon, while Damon pointed to Brad Pitt as the true champion.
4. Matt Damon’s Role Was Initially Written for Mark Wahlberg
However, Wahlberg turned down the chance to participate as he was committed to the project “Planet of the Apes” in 2001. He later expressed regret for missing out on this opportunity.
5. Don Cheadle Wanted His Name on the Movie Poster
Cheadle requested that his name appear alongside Clooney, Damon, and Pitt in the film’s title. However, after this request was declined by the producers, he was not credited on the film’s poster, despite playing a significant role.
6. Brad Pitt’s Character Was Inspired by Mike Myers
Pitt’s character was designed to echo the hairstyle of actor Mike Myers during his role in “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.”
7. “Ocean’s Eleven” Lost Three Stars from “The Royal Tenenbaums”
Actors Luke Wilson, Owen Wilson, and Danny Glover were initially set to star in the film but were replaced by Bernie Mac, Scott Caan, and Casey Affleck, who all delivered outstanding performances.
8. The Character Basher Tarr Was Originally Designed for a British Actor
Don Cheadle played Basher Tarr, but the role was meant for a British actor. However, Cheadle’s audition won over director Steven Soderbergh, who decided to cast him instead. Cheadle later expressed that he felt inadequate due to the British accent he had to adopt for the role.
9. The Film’s Production Required Significant Salary Cuts
To make the film a reality, all major stars, including Clooney, Pitt, and Roberts, had to agree to lower their salaries.
10. The Character Yen Was Played by a Renowned Contortionist
Tanaka Shunsuke, the actor who portrayed Yen, is a professional contortionist and did not participate in any other films outside the “Ocean’s” series.
11. There is Minimal Connection Between the 2001 and 1960 Versions
In fact, George Clooney’s portrayal of Danny Ocean is the only character name that remains consistent between the two versions.
Source: Hollywood
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