Sometimes the goings-on behind the scenes when films are made are more dramatic than the action in front of the camera. Actors may argue, hate the director, or despise the script. The end result of a movie can reflect all the turmoil that went into making it, dragging down its quality. With all that in mind, it could come as a surprise to learn that Elf, starring Will Ferrell, was allegedly rife with backstage dissension. This jolly, lighthearted romp from 2003 was supposedly a battleground of sorts away from the camera lens, per dailymail.co.uk.
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The Plot Of 'Elf'
It's About A Person Raised By North Pole Elves
Okay, that sounds far-fetched, I know. I ask that you suspend your disbelief for a moment because Elf is a wacky holiday comedy, not a documentary. Ferrell plays Buddy Hobbs, a person reared by elves. He grew up at the North Pole. Per the outlet, "His alter-ego decides to head to New York City in a mission to try and feel 'normal', so packs his bags and heads to the city - while dressed in his elf outfit - to find his biological dad."
There Was A Casting Issue Involving Who Would Play Buddy As An Infant
Twin Boys Were Originally Cast In The Role
The pair of little blond boys reportedly cried too much, so they lost the role. Instead, young Buddy was played by dark-haired female triplets. Hollywood is a land of fantasies, so anything goes!
Why Wasn't There An 'Elf' Sequel?
It's Surprising, Given The Film's Success
The answer to this question came from Will Ferrell himself. He reportedly told The Guardian via dailymail.co.uk, "I killed the idea of a sequel." Wait, what?! He added, "$29m does seem a lot of money for a guy to wear tights, but it's what the marketplace will bear."
But Ferrell's salary demand wasn't the sole obstacle. The late actor James Caan, who portrayed Buddy's dad, allegedly said to Cleveland's 92.3 The Fan's Bull & Fox four years ago that Ferrell and director Jon Favreau "didn't get along very well." Caan explained, "So, Will wanted to do it, he didn't want the director, and he had it in his contract, it was one of those things."
The Film's Writer Wanted Jim Carrey To Play Buddy
That Did Not Work Out
Writer David Berenbaum wanted Jim Carrey for the role of Buddy. Unfortunately, though, he finished writing Elf in 1993 and the movie was not made until years passed. At that point, Carrey was unavailable and booked up with other projects.
Ferrell Ate Lots Of Sugar During The Film
He Ate Too Much Sweets
Buddy, Ferrell's character, adored sweet treats. So Ferrell downed them as needed. even sloshing maple syrup on top of pasta. Being a pro and a real trouper, Ferrell said to The Sun via dailymail.co.uk, "If it takes eating a lot of maple syrup, then I will - if that's what the job calls for."
Zooey Deschanel Wasn't The Top Selection To Play Jovie
She Planned To Be A 'Backup'
She reportedly told Variety via dailymail.co.uk that she intended to be "a backup." Instead, when the actress originally cast in the role ultimately "couldn't do it," Deschanel landed the choice part.
