13 Movies Saved By Ridiculously Last Minute Changes

1. Tobey Maguire Is Replaced For Being "Too Famous" - Life Of Pi

And finally, during principal photography on Ang Lee's acclaimed adaptation of Yann Martel's much-loved novel, Tobey Maguire was originally cast as a reporter interviewing Pi about his ordeal, which would serve as the film's frame narrative.

However, Lee decided in post-production that Maguire, as the only Hollywood actor among the entire cast, was "too jarringly recognisable", and decided to recast the part.

More than six months after initial shooting wrapped, Maguire was replaced with Rafe Spall, who at the time wasn't terribly well-known to audiences, and the role was altered to be the novel's author himself rather than a reporter.

This was a shame for Maguire but it was definitely the best thing for the movie: Maguire's famous face showing up every so often would undeniably detract from the story, whereas having someone as non-intrusive as Spall in the role made it easier to keep focusing on Pi's adventure.

Which movies do you feel most benefited from their shocking last-minute changes? Shout them out in the comments!