Colin Farrell Struggled with Line in ‘Minority Report’ After Partying: 46 Takes
Colin Farrell recently reflected on a challenging filming experience from his breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg’s 2002 sci-fi film *Minority Report*. During a guest appearance on *The Late Show With Stephen Colbert*, he described an unforgettable incident that unfolded on set.
Colin Farrell’s Challenging Day on Set
Farrell, now starring in the Netflix film *Ballad of a Small Player*, recounted how the day of filming coincided with his birthday on May 31. Despite his request not to work on his special day, he was scheduled to arrive on set at 6 a.m.
A Night of Celebrations
- Farrell celebrated the night before with friends, which left him unprepared for his early call time.
- His birthday festivities included excessive drinking, leading to a rough start to the filming day.
Initially, he received a wake-up call from his driver, causing him to rush to the trailer. Upon arrival, the second assistant director, Dave Venghaus, advised him against going to the set in his condition.
The Recording Challenge
Despite his state, Farrell requested a few beers and cigarettes to help him regain composure. Once on set, he struggled with a specific line: “I’m sure you’ve all grasped the fundamental paradox of pre-crime methodology.” This line was crucial for starting the scene.
The Pressure of Perfection
After multiple attempts, the pressure mounted, and it took a staggering 46 takes to film the scene. Farrell humorously noted that Tom Cruise, who played the lead role, was not pleased with the situation.
Given Cruise’s reputation for demanding high standards on set, this experience highlighted the challenges Farrell faced during the filming of his significant role. The performance in *Minority Report* ultimately led to a series of successful roles in movies such as *Phone Booth*, *Daredevil*, and *Alexander*.
Farrell’s story serves as a reminder of the demands of the film industry and the personal struggles actors often face while pursuing their careers.