“He was an equally phenomenal director as his brother”: Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel Was Almost Directed by Ridley Scott’s Brother Best Known for Tom Cruise’s Top Gun
In 2013, the cinematic world witnessed the dawn of a new era for the iconic Superman character with the release of Man of Steel, a film directed by the visionary Zack Snyder. Before Zack Snyder’s involvement, a fascinating encounter occurred between Ridley Scott’s brother Tony Scott, and Christopher Nolan about the directorial approach of the film. Christopher Nolan, who had already achieved immense acclaim for his work in The Dark Knight trilogy, had a pivotal role in the development of Man of Steel.
This cinematic masterpiece marked a significant reboot for the Superman franchise, breathing new life into the beloved character. Henry Cavill stepped into the iconic red and blue suit, embodying the dual persona of Clark Kent and Superman. The film delved deep into the character’s origin story, providing audiences with a fresh and immersive look at his evolution into Earth’s guardian. This reinterpretation was not just about spectacle and action; it skillfully wove together action-packed sequences with emotional complexity, offering a nuanced portrayal of Superman that resonated with a contemporary audience.
The Near-Casting of Ridley Scott’s Brother as Director in Man of Steel
During a candid conversation with Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, the screenwriter of Man of Steel, David S. Goyer, unveiled a fascinating tidbit from the film’s pre-production phase. He recounted how the visionary filmmaker Christopher Nolan, who played a pivotal role in shaping the tone and direction of the film, had engaged in discussions with none other than Tony Scott, the brother of renowned director Ridley Scott, regarding the possibility of Tony helming the Henry Cavill-led superhero epic.
Goyer offered a glimpse into the meticulous process of selecting the director for Man of Steel. It wasn’t a decision taken lightly. Christopher Nolan, known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking, held meetings with approximately five potential directors, each bringing their unique perspective to the table. As the discussions evolved, Nolan’s list gradually dwindled, narrowing it down to two standout candidates: Zack Snyder and Tony Scott. David S. Goyer told on the Happy Sad Confused podcast,
“Chris had already met with Tony Scott, so there’s a version of a Tony Scott Man of Steel in some parallel universe. I think Tony Scott doesn’t get as much credit as he should be given, because he was an equally phenomenal director as his brother [Ridley Scott], and that’s a movie I would have liked to have seen.”
The anticipation of Tony Scott, known for films like Enemy of the State, directing Man of Steel was intriguing. Unfortunately, in the same year the movie was released, Tony Scott, grappling with inoperable cancer, tragically took his own life by jumping from a bridge. His suicide, though shocking and saddening, was viewed by some as a courageous effort to escape the relentless suffering caused by the disease.
Tony Scott’s Directorial Impact on Hollywood
Tony Scott was far more than just the younger brother of the esteemed director Sir Ridley Scott; he was a cinematic force in his own right. Tony Scott made his directorial debut with The Hunger in 1983, a stylish and atmospheric horror film that showcased his unique visual flair and storytelling prowess. In 1986, he steered the ship on Top Gun, a film that not only defined an era but also became a generational touchstone.
Little did anyone know at the time that Top Gun would become a legendary aviation movie, grossing $357 million worldwide and solidifying Tony Scott as a top action director. His filmography, including Beverly Hills Cop II, Days of Thunder, and True Romance, showcased his versatility in action and drama, leaving an enduring legacy across genres.
Man of Steel is available for streaming on HBO Max.
Source: YouTube
