An Underrated Kevin Costner Flop Was Almost Directed By Francis Ford Coppola

Published: Monday, June 23, 2025 at 6:00 pm

"Thirteen Days": A Near Miss for Coppola and a Look Back at a Cold War Thriller

The screenplay for "Thirteen Days," a gripping account of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, was a highly sought-after project, attracting interest from top-tier talent. The script, penned by David Self, focused on the tense standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union, with President John F. Kennedy and his advisors navigating a perilous game of nuclear brinkmanship.

Kevin Costner was initially slated to produce and star in the film, taking on the role of Kenneth O'Donnell, a Special Assistant to JFK. This casting decision naturally led to speculation about who would direct the project. Several prominent directors were considered, including Steven Spielberg, Lawrence Kasdan, and Phil Alden Robinson, who had previously collaborated with Costner on "Field of Dreams." Roger Donaldson and Martin Campbell were also in the running.

However, the producers, recognizing the potential of the script and the star power of Costner, aimed even higher. They approached Francis Ford Coppola, a director known for his critically acclaimed work. Despite the allure of the project, Coppola ultimately declined the offer. The reasons behind his decision remain undisclosed in the text.

The article suggests that Coppola's decision to pass on "Thirteen Days" may have influenced his subsequent career trajectory, potentially leading him towards a project that would become the biggest flop of his career.

BNN's Perspective:

The story of "Thirteen Days" highlights the complex dynamics of Hollywood decision-making. While the film ultimately found its way to the screen, the initial pursuit of such high-profile directors underscores the industry's constant quest for both artistic excellence and commercial success. It's a reminder that even the most promising projects can face unexpected turns, and the choices made by key players can have lasting consequences.

Keywords: Thirteen Days, Kevin Costner, Francis Ford Coppola, Cuban Missile Crisis, David Self, John F. Kennedy, Kenneth O'Donnell, Steven Spielberg, Lawrence Kasdan, Phil Alden Robinson, Roger Donaldson, Martin Campbell, Hollywood, film, screenplay, movie

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