Stars who play leading roles in hit films seem perfect for the part, but what if another name had been on the poster?

Can you imagine a famous movie with a different actor in a starring role?

Well, here’s your chance…

1. The Godfather (1972) – Jack Nicholson as Michael Corleone

Jack Nicholson turned down the role that finally went to Al Pacino. Warren Beatty, Robert Redford, Ryan O’Neal and Dustin Hoffman also declined the invitation so Nicholson no doubt reassured himself he was in good company. Nicholson has few regrets, though.

“I knew ‘The Godfather‘ was going to be a great film, but at that time I believed Indians should play roles written for Indians and Italians should do the same” he said.

“Al Pacino was great in the part, and when I saw the picture I couldn’t see anyone else in it, myself included. “Besides, if I had played ‘The Godfather’s’ youngest son, my next door neighbour (Marlon Brando) would have teased me about it forever.”

2. The Graduate (1967) – Robert Redford as Benjamin Braddock

Robert Redford was impressed with the script and screen tested by director Mike Nichols. However, both he and Nichols felt he lacked the naivete required to be believable in the role. Nichols was quoted as saying to Redford.

“Well, let’s put in this way. Have you ever struck out with a girl?”

“What do you mean?” replied Redford.

“That’s precisely my point.” said Nichols.

Dustin Hoffman played the iconic role to great success.

3. The Matrix (1999) – Will Smith as Neo

The part went to Keanu Reeves and Will Smith made ‘Wild Wild West’ (1999) instead. Given the relative success of the films, this was perhaps not the wisest move. However, Will Smith does not lament his decision.

“That’s the role Keanu was born to play. When I watch the movie and I see the choices he made, there are a hundred occasions when I think, ‘I would have messed that up.’

Interestingly, Will Smith’s wife, Jada Plinkett Smith, appeared in both Matrix sequels.

4. Boogie Nights (1997) – Gwyneth Paltrow as Rollergirl

Paul Thomas Anderson initially met Gwyneth Paltrow when directing his first feature, Hard Eight (1996), and tried to persuade her to play the roller-skate wearing porn star, Brandy.

Perhaps the nudity and sex scenes did not appeal and Gwyneth declined, with Heather Graham making the role of Brandy her own.

5. Forrest Gump (1994) - Bill Murray as Forrest Gump

Tom Hanks is synonymous with the role, but the laconic Bill Murray may well have made an interesting Forrest Gump had he accepted an approach made before filming began.

Sources

The Observer Book of Film (2007)

Time Out Film Guide