Tonight on TV: Sean Connery retired because of this movie

In 2003, Stephen Norrington was offered a comic book adaptation The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen By Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neill, featuring several characters from 19th century fantasy literature (Captain Nemo, Tom Sawyer, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde…), directed by adventurer Alan Cutermain.

Fearing that he would once again miss the box (he regretted refusing The Matrix and The Lord of the Rings), Sean Connery agreed to the main role. But once the script is written, things get complicated. Although Stephen Norrington wants to stay true to the original work and keep it dark, Mella, as well as Sean Connery, also the executive producer of the film, has very specific requirements, requiring about twenty rewrites of the script.

The relationship between the director and the lead was further strained on the set, which at the same time suffered from budget cuts and heavy financial losses due to the floods. During one of the scenes, a violent argument breaks out between two men who almost come to blows. After which Stephen Norrington resigns, but Mela threatens to sue, returns to the set to finish the job.

Upon its theatrical release, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen was set on fire by international critics and was a disappointing result at the global box office, bringing in $179 million (78 million for its budget).

After this experience, Stephen Norrington retired from the film industry before returning to his first love, animatronics. On the other hand, Sean Conner also decided to end his career. In a 2011 interview with The Times, the comedian said: “It was a nightmare! The experience really fascinated me. It made me think about show business. I’m tired of talking to morons.”

Want another TV tip tonight? What if you discover the best French romantic comedy?

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Stephen Norrington with Sean Connery, Shane West, Peta Wilson…

from the age of 10

Tonight on 6 ter at 21:05.