Quentin Tarantino‘s “Inglourious Basterds” isn’t just one of his best movies. It is one of the best movies from the 21st century. From the 20 minute opening sequence to the final frame, “Inglourious Basterds” is a masterpiece.
After pushing back the film to make “Kill Bill” and “Death Proof,” Tarantino’s original plans for the film changed a lot. So, here’s a list of three ways “Inglourious Basterds” changed during preproduction.
3. Leonardo DiCaprio Was Supposed To Play Hans Landa
It’s hard to think of anyone playing Hans (The Jew Hunter) Landa beside Christoph Waltz. But, Tarantino originally wanted Leo to play the film’s villain. After deciding he wanted Landa to be played by a native German-speaking actor, Waltz got the part. DiCaprio and Tarantino would later team up twice. Once in “Django Unchained” and again in “Once Upon A Time … In Hollywood.”
2. The Original Title Was “Once Upon a Time … In Nazi-Occupied Germany”
Before settling on “Inglourious Basterds,” Tarantino wanted to name the film “Once Upon a Time… In Nazi-Occupied Germany.” Tarantino was inspired by Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon a Time…” film series. Although he initially passed on Leone’s titling style, Tarantino utilized it in 2019 with “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.”
Tarantino still included “Once Upon a Time … In Nazi-Occupied Germany” as the subtitle of the film’s first chapter.
1. Adam Sandler Was Offered The Role of The Bear Jew
This one is mind boggling. Even after seeing Sandler‘s dramatic chops in “Punch Drunk Love” and “Uncut Gems” I cannot fathom what Tarantino was thinking here. At the time of “Inglourious Basterds” production, Sandler was still known for his goofball roles. There is no doubt that the tone of the whole film would change with this casting. Sandler ultimately ended up passing on the film to star in “Funny People.”
Bonus
For the cherry on top check out this hilarious “Simpsons” spoof of “Inglourious Basterds” climatic death sequence.
