Spielberg’s Persistence Paid Off: The Story of Daniel Day-Lewis in “Lincoln”

Key Takeaways:

– Steven Spielberg courted Daniel Day-Lewis for the title role in “Lincoln” for nine years.
– Day-Lewis initially rejected the project, citing personal reasons for his decision.
– Spielberg went to great lengths, including rewriting the script and involving Leonardo DiCaprio, to persuade Day-Lewis.

Persistence was the Name of the Game

Iconic director Steven Spielberg displayed a level of dogged determination rarely seen in Hollywood when he pursued Daniel Day-Lewis for the leading part in the biographical war drama, “Lincoln”. Not only for a few weeks or months, but for an astonishing nine-year period! Spielberg's perseverance finally paid off when the award-winning actor agreed to the part after initially passing on the role twice.

The Initial Rejection Letter

After Spielberg's first meeting with Day-Lewis, the director was surprised to receive a rejection letter from the actor, explaining why he felt he couldn't participate in the project. Spielberg's initial script focused on the larger-than-life story of America's 16th President, with its epic war background didn't align with how the actor envisioned the role. Day-Lewis' letter respectfully explained his decision, stating he could only undertake such a project if it aligned with a “very personal need and a very specific moment in time.”

Nevertheless, Spielberg didn't give up. Instead, he decided to modify the screenplay, hoping a revised version would resonate with Day-Lewis. However, that attempt too was unsuccessful.

On the Road to a More Character-Oriented Story

Our relentless Spielberg knew that he had to change his tact in order to persuade the unyielding Day-Lewis. He brought Tony Kushner, the acclaimed playwright and screenwriter, on board to create a more personal story, focusing on President Lincoln's personality and individual struggles rather than the grand narrative of the war.

In between, Spielberg considered Liam Neeson for the role. Neeson even started preparing for the part, but then had to bow out in 2010 due to personal reasons. This detour, again, led Spielberg back to Day-Lewis.

A Game-Changing Phone Call

In a surprising turn of events, it was a friendly assist from actor Leonardo DiCaprio that made all the difference in landing the high-profile actor for the film. DiCaprio, understanding Spielberg's passion for the project, and the director's vision for Day-Lewis in the leading role, urged his former “Gangs of New York” co-star to reconsider his decision.

This time, Day-Lewis agreed to at least read Kushner's revised script. The more intimate and character-driven tale, along with DiCaprio's endorsement, convinced Day-Lewis that he could bring to life Spielberg's vision of Lincoln.

A Box-Office Triumph, Courtesy of Spielberg's Tenacity

Spielberg's pitched battle to get his dream actor for the title role paid off handsomely. “Lincoln” was a commercial hit, grossing $275 million globally. Beyond that, it earned twelve Academy Award nominationsand bagged two wins, one of which went to Day-Lewis for Best Actor.

This journey to success shows how Spielberg's unwavering commitment and adaptations to Day-Lewis's artistic requirements led to the triumphant realization of his vision at the box office. Meanwhile, yet again, Day-Lewis left a lasting impression with his exceptional portrayal of a beloved historical figure. You can now stream the riveting drama “Lincoln” on Paramount+.