Schwarzenegger wanted to try directing a low-risk, family-friendly film after the high-stakes production of 'Terminator 2'. He chose 'Christmas in Connecticut' because it fit his criteria of being simple and non-controversial.
The budget for the film was $3 million, which was considered a small amount for a production featuring such a high-profile director and cast.
Schwarzenegger requested more humor and action, leading to the addition of an action sequence at the beginning where the protagonist rescues a child. The script was rewritten to include more of his vision, making it more comedic and action-oriented.
The premiere was a media sensation, with a red carpet event and a screening at a large theater. However, the film received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it overly chaotic and not well-executed.
Mitch Albom, a musician and friend of the producer Stan Brooks, wrote a song titled 'Cooking for Two' for the film. The song was used during the credits and was about food, fitting the theme of the movie.
Schwarzenegger's involvement brought a lot of attention and chaos to the production. His requests for more action and humor changed the tone of the film, and his presence on set, along with his famous friends, made the experience memorable for the crew.
The Washington, D.C. screening was attended by political figures, including Oliver North. It was part of Schwarzenegger's efforts to build relationships in the political sphere, which would later influence his decision to run for governor of California.
After becoming governor of California, Schwarzenegger appointed Stan Brooks to the California Film Commission. Brooks helped lobby for tax credits to encourage film production in California, addressing the issue of runaway production.
What happens when the biggest movie star in the world directs the smallest Christmas film on basic cable? A holiday miracle.
Today on the show: The never-before-published, extremely bizarre story of the making of ‘Christmas in Connecticut’... the remake.
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