Why Hollywood's Best Actors Should Have Starred Together

The golden age of Hollywood saw a wealth of talent that could have produced some of the most iconic on-screen partnerships. From The Man Who Would Be King to modern-day action heroes, certain combinations would have been nothing short of legendary. In this article, we will explore why some of Hollywood's greatest actors and actresses could have made brilliant film partnerships that never came to pass.

The Dream Team: Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable in The Man Who Would Be King

Director John Huston had a vision for The Man Who Would Be King, a feature-length adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's work. For this ambitious project, Huston saw Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable as a perfect match, something he clearly outlined in his writings:

Clark Gable was the only real he-man Ive ever known of all the actors Ive Bogart was endowed with the greatest gift a man can have--talent. The whole world came to recognize it. With the years he became increasingly aware of the dignity of his profession--Actor not Star. Himself he never took seriously--his work most seriously.

These quotes reveal the high regard Huston had for both actors. Dan Dravot and Peachy Carleton Carnahan, the key characters in the story, were described as seasoned adventurers and military men. Huston believed that Gable was more suited for the role of Dan, while Bogart was perfect for the role of Peachy. The chemistry between the two, given their screen presence and strengths as actors, would have undoubtedly brought a level of authenticity and drama to the film. However, both actors passed away in 1957 and 1960, respectively, before the project could come to fruition.

The Kings of Westerns: Clive Spender and Paul Newman in Unforgiven and Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

Westerns are known for their masculinity, and no two actors were better at embodying this ruggedness than Clive Spender (played by Peter O'Toole in Unforgiven) and Paul Newman (in Man Who Shot Liberty Valance).

Unforgiven

Spender fits the mold of an intimidating, six-shooter-wielding hero, while Newman exudes the quiet strength and resolve of a man who has seen and done it all. Watching these two characters would have been a testament to the raw power and authenticity of their acting.

Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

In this film, Newman's character, Ransom Stoddard, and O’Toole’s character, Tom Doniphon, were two men of immense testosterone, both pushing each other to the limit. The sheer amount of testosterone in the air would have been palpable, and the sheer force of their performance would have been thrilling.

However, for various reasons, neither Peter O'Toole nor Clive Spender was ever cast in these roles. Nonetheless, the idea of these two actors playing such iconic characters in Westerns would have been a sight to behold.

Brad Smith and Angelina Jolie in Mr. Mrs. Smith

In the modern era, the pairing of Brad Smith and Angelina Jolie in a film like Mr. Mrs. Smith would have been a force to be reckoned with. Jolie plays the antagonist in the original Mr. Mrs. Smith, a role that would have been amplified by the presence of Smith, known for his stoic and formidable screen persona:

The dynamic between these two would have created a meta-commentary on their on-screen and off-screen relationship, adding another layer of intrigue to the plot.

Their chemistry and the balance of tension and romance would have made for an enthralling viewing experience, especially as they navigate their dual alliances and conflicts.

However, it’s extremely unlikely that such a project would ever come to fruition, given the respective time commitments and personal discussions required for the actors to agree on a sequel.

Conclusion

While these film pairings may remain in the realm of what could have been, the idea of these legendary actors coming together onscreen remains a fascinating thought. The combinations of Bogart and Gable, Spender and Newman, Smith and Jolie would have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on cinema, pushing the envelope in terms of both storytelling and character dynamics. Hollywood's golden age produced some of the best actors and actresses, and their vision of collaboration remains a testament to the lasting power of talent and chemistry on screen.