20 Things You Didn't Know About The Truman Show
6. "Are You Sure That's A Good Idea?"
For the show's long-term
plan to play out how the network wanted it to, an immense amount of
work was done to try and ensure Truman would never find out the truth
behind his life. They also needed to plan for the possibility that he
may decide to leave Seahaven at some point in the future.
This was mainly done through Truman's fear of water, which showrunners had implanted at an early age. Various accidents, including the drowning of his father, were created to remind Truman of the dangers that are beyond the shores.
Though he eventually overcame his fear, allowing him to escape, his first attempt was a little less successful.
During his major breakdown, when he kidnaps Meryl, Truman brings the car to a stop when faced with the one bridge out of town. As Meryl kindly reminds him, he can't drive over water due to his fear and his journey comes to a swift end.
What you may not have noticed though, is a little message just for Truman. A sign on the bridge states;
You are now leaving Seahaven Island! Are you sure that's a good idea?
It's subtle, but enough to plant doubts into Truman's head.