- Ability over Appearance: Anna becomes an American to accommodate Meryl Streep. The author approved the casting, saying he'd often thought of the character as an American due to her independence.
- Creator Backlash: Meryl Streep said years later that this was the one performance of hers that she regrets.
- Deleted Role: Harriet Walter filmed several scenes for a prominent role that ended up cut completely.
- Fake Brit: Meryl Streep puts on an English accent when she plays Sarah in the film, but keeps her own voice as Anna.
- Old Shame: For Meryl Streep, as noted above. Ironically she got the first of her many, many Oscar nominations for Best Actress for this performance.
- Saved from Development Hell: The film was first optioned to be made in The '70s, with Vanessa Redgrave in the lead. Funding couldn't be secured, and it didn't get made until The '80s.
- What Could Have Been:
- Miloš Forman, John Frankenheimer, Sidney Lumet and Mike Nichols were considered to direct.
- Richard Chamberlain and Robert Redford were considered for Charles Smithson/Mike.
- John Fowles originally wanted Helen Mirren or Vanessa Redgrave for Sarah/Anna. Charlotte Rampling was also considered.
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