Los Angeles, California – Julia Stiles recently revealed her dissatisfaction with the 2000 rom-com “Down to You” during an appearance on the “Films to be Buried With” podcast. While she initially loved the script, Stiles admitted that the finished product did not meet her expectations. The actor did not place blame on writer-director Kris Isacsson, but instead pointed fingers at Harvey Weinstein’s creative interference for the disappointing outcome.
Stiles reminisced about Weinstein’s involvement in the film, stating that the powerful Miramax studios head took control over the distribution rights. According to Stiles, Weinstein insisted on incorporating a dance scene featuring her character, citing the success of her previous films as a reason for including it. However, Stiles expressed feeling uncomfortable and cheapened by the scene, as she believed it added no value to the plot or the characters’ development.
Critics heavily criticized “Down to You,” with some pointing out its flaws, describing it as filled with hokey moments. Stiles’ experience with Weinstein’s micromanagement of the film mirrors the sentiments of other filmmakers who have clashed with the producer in the past. Guillermo del Toro, for example, disowned his first major studio film “Mimic” after Weinstein’s interference, while James Gray’s crime-drama “The Yards” reportedly suffered a similar fate due to Weinstein’s demands.
Weinstein’s reputation for meddling in the creative process of films has earned him the moniker “Harvey Scissorhands.” His reputation for overstepping boundaries and altering filmmakers’ visions has left a trail of dissatisfaction in the industry. Stiles’ revelations shed light on the challenges faced by artists when confronted with powerful figures exerting control over their work.