In the captivating world of Hollywood, where tales of filmmaking drama exist, one story stands out as both enigmatic and disturbing. It revolves around the iconic director Francis Ford Coppola and the immensely talented actor Martin Sheen. Within this narrative, a web of manipulation and ambition was revealed, as the filmmaker reportedly drove the actor to the ridge, nearly pushing him to the brink of self-destruction.
The motive behind this harrowing ordeal was none other than the grandiose $150 million masterpiece, Apocalypse Now, a movie that ultimately faced rejection from the legendary Al Pacino.
Francis Ford Coppola Manipulated And Endangered Martin Sheen During Apocalypse Now
The captivating behind-the-scenes stories of Francis Ford Coppola’s epic Vietnam War masterpiece, Apocalypse Now, have attained legendary status, rivaling the movie’s fame.
The production’s tumultuous nature turned into the realm of darkness and negativity, leaving an indelible mark on its legacy.
Among the most notorious incidents was the heart-stopping moment when Martin Sheen, in his 30s at the time, suffered a heart attack during filming.
In an interview with the media, the artist recounted the terrifying experience, a result of intense tension, unhealthy habits, and solitude.
Yet, beyond the visible mishaps lay a hidden truth Coppola’s manipulation of Sheen, pushing him to the limits of his vulnerability. Battling alcoholism, The Way star found himself defenseless against Coppola’s strange directing approach.
Crew members also disclosed the screenwriter’s unusual methods, portraying him as a director who sought the darkest pits of Sheen’s soul, plunging him into uncharted emotional depths. The crew member said,
“He would tell Martin, You’re evil. I want all the evil, the violence, the hatred in you to come out. Francis did a dangerous and terrible thing. He assumed the role of a psychiatrist and did a kind of brainwashing on a man who was much too sensitive. He put Martin in a place and didn’t bring him back.”
Remarkably, Al Pacino had initially been considered for the role, only to decline the offer, eventually leading to Sheen’s unforgettable journey into the heart of darkness.
Al Pacino Turned Down The Apocalypse Now
In Hollywood’s defining moments, some instances shape the destinies of both legendary actors and iconic films. Such a pivotal moment emerged when the 83-year-old faced a critical choice regarding the lead role in the movie Apocalypse Now.
Approached by Coppola for the role of Captain Benjamin Willard, Pacino ultimately decided to decline the opportunity.
The seasoned Hollywood star previously revealed that he felt unprepared and not in the right frame of mind to take on such a demanding role that required a location shoot in the Philippines. Reflecting on the decision, Pacino admitted,
”I just wasn’t ready to do it. I was at a certain point in my life and not in the right space for going away and doing a movie like that.”
Following the Heat performer’s refusal, Coppola cast Sheen, whose portrayal of Captain Willard became a defining performance in his illustrious career.
Despite this divergence, Pacino and Coppola had previously collaborated on the iconic Godfather trilogy, where the most influential actor delivered an unforgettable portrayal of the Mafia gangster Michael Corleone.
Source: The Things
