Question 1

Why did Burt Lancaster initially hesitate to take his role in Seven Days in May?

Accepted Answer

As a liberal Democrat, Burt Lancaster was hesitant because he felt the character and film unfairly vilified the conservative Republican party. Kirk Douglas persuaded him that the role was morally ambiguous rather than villainous.

Question 2

What personal connection did Kirk Douglas have with President John F. Kennedy regarding this film?

Accepted Answer

At a dinner, President John F. Kennedy asked Kirk Douglas if he planned to make the novel into a movie. When Douglas said yes, Kennedy spent half an hour telling him how great it would be.

Question 3

How did the filmmakers secretly get shots of Kirk Douglas entering the Pentagon?

Accepted Answer

Without permission, they rigged a station wagon with cameras and had Douglas, in full Marine colonel uniform, drive up and walk into the Pentagon. He received salutes from actual military personnel before walking out.

Question 4

Why was Seven Days in May's release date postponed from December 1963?

Accepted Answer

Burt Lancaster insisted the release be postponed as it was too soon after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Dr. Strangelove faced a similar delay for the same reason.

Question 5

What futuristic elements were included to set Seven Days in May in the near future?

Accepted Answer

The film includes futuristic items like a wall projecting slide viewer, television-based teleconference equipment, and a digital time/date display at the Pentagon to reflect a high-tech near-future environment.

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Seven Days in May

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