John Wayne’s Epic Struggle to Get “The Alamo” Made

For decades John Wayne was one of the biggest box office stars in the world.  Wayne’s dream project was to direct the story of The Alamo.  Although film fans know that Wayne did get the film made, most don’t know what a struggle it was.

Wayne had hoped to just direct The Alamo, but financing was impossible unless he not only starred in it, but signed a three picture deal with the studio.  Casting was also a nightmare.  Wayne was hoping to get Clark Gable or Frank Sinatra for one role and that didn’t work out.  Burt Lancaster was Wayne’s first choice for another role but he ended up with Richard Widmark.  To make matters worse Wayne and Widmark developed an instant dislike to each other.

During filming there were natural disasters, the murder of a co-star and more.  Even after filing wrapped there were troubles.

Nolan Moore documents Wayne’s struggles to get The Alamo made in 10 Amazing Stories About John Wayne’s Epic Failure.  It is well worth the read.

Source: Listverse.