Question 1

Why did Orson Welles make 'The Lady from Shanghai' according to his own account?

Accepted Answer

Orson Welles stated the film grew out of pure desperation to raise $55,000 to save his musical 'Around the World in 80 Days' from cancellation, leading him to phone Harry Cohn to buy the novel rights.

Question 2

What issue did Everett Sloane have with his character's costume in the film?

Accepted Answer

Everett Sloane refused to wear the leg braces for his character, complaining of the pain they caused, and was reportedly difficult to deal with on set.

Question 3

How did Orson Welles handle a set repainting dispute with Columbia executives?

Accepted Answer

Welles and friends broke into the paint department on a weekend to repaint a set themselves, hanging a banner mocking executive Jack Fier after being told it was impossible due to union rules.

Question 4

What was the original length of Orson Welles' rough cut for this film?

Accepted Answer

Orson Welles' original rough cut ran 155 minutes, but Columbia Pictures executives made numerous cuts, including shortening the famous funhouse finale.

Question 5

Which festivals has 'The Lady from Shanghai' been featured in?

Accepted Answer

The film has been part of the Locarno International Film Festival in 2024 and 2005, and the BFI London Film Festival in 2013.

Loved this film?

Share with others

Loved this film?

Share with others

The Lady from Shanghai

Customers also watched