Director's Notes

Assignment from 15 Feb 2011


For the purpose of this assignment, I chose to read the script of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Having seen tidbits of the film here and there, I know much emphasis was placed on truly representing the psychedelics the pair experienced. So much emphasis was placed on showcasing what they were seeing that no one else could see. Certainly the script describes the madness they see around them, whether one or both are seeing it.


The film is based on Thompson's experiences, on a trip he took, and the notes from that trip. For him, this is a personal experience and the director of the film took it as such. I would be interested, however, in finding ways to have no main character to the story, almost to shoot it as an Altman film. How does the other react to Thompson's in-film antics? The events depicted are so apart from what most people experience in every day life, I would be interested in trying to portray their perspective on the story.


For the key cast I'd like to see:


Raoul Duke - Robert Downey Jr.
I've seen him do enough of a variety of fairly eccentric roles that I think he could succeed in the role of a drug-addled reporter. I have every confidence he can play high-strung exceedingly well.
Dr. Gonzo - Phillip Seymour Hoffman
Needs to play the laid-back foil to Duke's high-strung nature. PSH reminds me of a more refined and versatile Jack Black, especially after seeing him in Pirate Radio, so I'd want him in this role.
Hitchhiker - Andy Samberg
A young up and comer in film, enough boyish charm and could put on enough of an innocent air that this role would be amusing for the bit part he plays.
Highway Patrolman - Tommy Lee Jones
I need a severity for this role to contrast the zaniness all around, but I need it a little snarky. TLJ can pull that off, I've seen him do it a million times.
Lucy - Anne Hathaway
She needs to be a corrupted innocent. Someone who isn't immediately associated as an icon of vice so she can be duly corrupted.
Desk Clerk at Mint Hotel - Helen Mirren
This role requires enough of a straight-laced delivery, I think either her or Meryl Streep can pull that off. I want someone big-name in the role for the audience to have a brief flash of recognition.
Lacerda - Russell Brand
Someone who can be completely oblivious tot he plight of those around him, and flippantly attend to his task at hand.