“I’ll never work again”: Harrison Ford Was Scared His Acting Career Would End After His Hit Thriller Movie
Harrison Ford has undeniably left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, gracing us with some of the most iconic movies in the industry. His illustrious career has spanned decades, showcasing a progression that continues to impress, even at 70. Ford has delivered unforgettable performances, making it challenging for audiences to overlook his remarkable roles. However, like any esteemed actor, Harrison Ford’s journey has also encompassed movies that may not have resonated as strongly with audiences or critics. While he holds an impressive number of successful films, a few have fallen short of expectations, leaving some viewers feeling disappointed.
One illustrative example of the challenges faced in achieving success is the remake of The Fugitive, a timeless classic that first hit the screens in 1993. Adapted from a popular television series with the same title, the film starred two accomplished actors, Tommy Lee Jones, and Harrison Ford. The Fugitive remake serves as a poignant reminder that making a movie is an intricate process, and achieving success is a true challenge that demands unwavering commitment, creative brilliance, and a touch of luck.
Harrison Ford’s Doubts About The Fugitive‘s Uncertain Fate
Regardless of fans’ interest in Dr. Richard Kimble’s guilt, 1993’s The Fugitive stands as one of the most thrilling films of its time. Surprisingly, both Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones feared the movie might end their careers during filming. A new oral history celebrating the 30th anniversary reveals various tales about its origins, successes, and skepticism, with Jones and Ford convinced it would flop like Kimble hitting the water. Jones recalled,
“I remember being in the giant basement of that hotel, surrounded by hanging bags of laundry. I was standing there speaking out to Harrison’s character. And there was nothing there except big bags of laundry. And I remember thinking in the back of my mind, ‘I’ll never work again. This is never going to work. And the best thing I can do is be as clear, concise, and coherent as possible, deliver these lines as cleanly and dutifully as possible, and maybe I’ll get another job one day, somewhere down the line.”
Ford shared similar concerns to Jones about the prospects of The Fugitive. According to co-star Daniel Roebuck, he vividly recalls a moment during the filming when they were in the water, and Ford expressed his apprehension. Roebuck recounted that Ford openly stated, “Oh, man, this is going to be my Hudson Hawk,” making a reference to the critically panned film starring Bruce Willis that earned several Razzie Awards. This remark by Ford highlighted his genuine fear that The Fugitive might suffer a similar fate and be critically lambasted or even considered a career low point, just like Hudson Hawk was for Bruce Willis.
Also Read: Tommy Lee Jones Owes His Only Oscar Win to Steven Seagal’s $156M Underrated Classic
What Happened to The Fugitive?
Thankfully for Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, and movie enthusiasts, The Fugitive proved to be a resounding success upon its release. Not only did it receive numerous Oscar nominations that year, but it also secured the second spot for the highest-grossing movie of the year. Furthermore, it later earned a well-deserved place at #33 on the American Film Institute’s prestigious 100 Years…100 Thrills list.
Also Read: Why Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones Stunt Double Self-immolated Himself
The film’s critical acclaim and commercial triumph were further validated when it garnered seven Oscar nominations the following year, ultimately leading to Tommy Lee Jones winning the coveted Best Supporting Actor award. Financially, The Fugitive raked in an impressive $368 million in box office revenue worldwide, solidifying its status as a massive hit.
The movie’s overwhelming success surpassed everyone’s expectations, proving that its stars’ initial doubts and concerns were unfounded. Instead of becoming a career setback, The Fugitive became a defining highlight in the filmography of both Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the most thrilling and memorable movies of its time.
Source: Marca
