Wes Anderson Opens Up About Tense Clash with Gene Hackman on ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ Set

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Renowned director reflects back on an awkward wrap-up of filming The Royal Tenenbaums alongside the late, talented Gene Hackman.

According to Anderson, when it came to reminiscing about his collaboration with Hackman, particularly on the 2001 movie “The Royal Tenenbaums”, he mentioned that Hackman was quite upset about the money. In fact, Anderson described him as being extremely angry over the modest flat fee given to the cast, a practice used in Anderson’s previous project, “Rushmore”. Furthermore, Anderson stated that Hackman initially didn’t want to be part of the film, but he managed to persuade him by simply refusing to back down.

He generously contributed a great deal to us, and considering the minimal amount of money involved, it seemed as though he gave us absolutely everything he had, Anderson remarked. The filmmaker continued by stating that, although Hackman was highly committed during the filming, he swiftly departed when The Royal Tenenbaums concluded. “He didn’t utter a single word, in fact, he left without even saying goodbye,” Anderson explained. “He was cranky – we clashed. I was likely too inexperienced and it was frustrating him.

The Royal Tenenbaums Was One of Gene Hackman’s Final Films

The 2001 film “The Royal Tenenbaums” explores the lives of three unique siblings – Chas, Margot, and Richie Tenenbaum – who were once prodigious and accomplished in their youth. However, they each experienced downfall in adulthood. Ben Stiller played Chas, Luke Wilson portrayed Richie, Gwyneth Paltrow was Margot, Anjelica Huston starred as Etheline Tenenbaum, the matriarch, and others included Danny Glover, Bill Murray, Al Thompson, and Owen Wilson. Upon its debut, “The Royal Tenenbaums” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences, grossing over $71 million at the box office on a budget of just $21 million.

Legendary actor Hackman sadly passed away at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico in February. Throughout his long career, he was renowned as one of the most celebrated actors of his era. Hackman’s impressive list of achievements includes five Academy Award nominations, two of which he won – Best Actor for ‘The French Connection’ in 1971 and Best Supporting Actor for ‘Unforgiven’ in 1992. The deceased star and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who also passed away at their shared home this year, were described as an exceptionally close couple who were known for their kindness and reserved nature, but who truly enjoyed life together.

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2025-05-18 21:07