20 Things You Didn't Know About The Truman Show

20. The Original Script Was Much Darker

The entire concept of this film is pretty dark as it is. We have a human being, trapped in a bubble away from the outside world while every aspect of his life is controlled. Add the fact that Truman is legally owned by a corporation and you already have a terrifying concept that could easily lend itself to a horror movie. However, during its conception, writer Andrew Niccol had a much darker tone in mind.

Originally titled "The Malcom Show", the script featured an alcoholic lead character who lives in a much darker, always raining version of New York City. Christof would follow him around, talking and hiding in the shadows rather than in a studio setting.

However, when it came to signing on Peter Weir, the director already had Carrey in mind for the lead role. He put to Niccol that the film should be a much lighter affair, with The Truman Show looking more like a show people would genuinely watch 24/7. After sixteen rewrites, Weir and Niccol finally settled on a script that brought us the light comedy/drama film we all love.