Question 1

How did William H. Macy's wardrobe subtly reflect Bernie's changing luck throughout the film?

Accepted Answer

Macy wore suits two sizes too big when Bernie was unlucky, one size too big as his luck improved, and a perfectly tailored suit when he became extremely lucky after falling in love.

Question 2

Why was Alec Baldwin specifically cast for his role as casino boss Shelly Kaplow?

Accepted Answer

The director said viewers would easily believe Baldwin was capable of punching a pregnant character, which was a key scene in the film.

Question 3

What notable distinction does Alec Baldwin's performance in this film hold in his career?

Accepted Answer

This features Alec Baldwin's only Oscar-nominated performance.

Question 4

What was the difference between European and American festival audiences' reactions to this film according to William H. Macy?

Accepted Answer

European audiences mostly discussed the script and characters, while American audiences mostly discussed how good Maria Bello looked in her nude scenes.

Question 5

Which major international film festivals screened 'The Cooler'?

Accepted Answer

It screened at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, Moscow International Film Festival, and Toronto International Film Festival.

Question 6

How did William H. Macy's suits visually represent Bernie's changing luck in The Cooler?

Accepted Answer

Macy wore suits two sizes too big when Bernie was unlucky, one size too big when his luck improved, and a perfectly tailored suit when he became extremely lucky after falling in love.

Question 7

What was unique about Alec Baldwin's casting for his role as Shelly Kaplow?

Accepted Answer

Director Wayne Kramer cast Baldwin specifically for a scene where Shelly punches pregnant Charlene, saying viewers would easily believe Baldwin capable of such an act.

Question 8

Which major film festivals screened The Cooler in 2003?

Accepted Answer

The film screened at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, and was recognized by the National Board of Review in 2003.

Question 9

What was the original MPAA rating for The Cooler and how was it changed?

Accepted Answer

The film originally received an NC-17 rating and was re-cut to achieve an R rating, with the dispute documented in the film This Film Is Not Yet Rated (2006).

Question 10

What did William H. Macy observe about audience reactions at European versus American film festivals?

Accepted Answer

Macy said European festival audiences mostly discussed the script and characters, while American festival audiences mostly discussed how good Maria Bello looked in her nude scenes.

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The Cooler

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