The 1987 film *Wall Street*, directed by Oliver Stone, is a landmark in American cinema, known for its portrayal of the financial world and the iconic character Gordon Gekko. This article delves into the film's
production, exploring how Stone and his team brought this gripping story to life. From casting choices to the screenplay's development, *Wall Street* is a testament to the collaborative effort of filmmakers and actors.
Development and Inspiration
After the success of *Platoon*, Oliver Stone was eager to tackle a new project. Initially, he considered a film about quiz show scandals but shifted focus to Wall Street, inspired by his father, Lou Stone, a stockbroker during the Great Depression. Stone's vision was to create a film that captured the allure and corruption of the financial world. He collaborated with screenwriter Stanley Weiser, who immersed himself in the world of stock trading and corporate takeovers to craft a compelling narrative.
The character of Gordon Gekko, played by Michael Douglas, was a composite of several real-life figures, including Dennis Levine and Ivan Boesky. Stone's personal experiences and observations of the financial sector also influenced Gekko's character. The film's screenplay underwent several drafts, with Stone and Weiser refining the story to ensure it resonated with audiences and accurately depicted the financial industry's complexities.
Casting and Character Development
Casting for *Wall Street* was a meticulous process. Stone initially considered Tom Cruise for the role of Bud Fox but ultimately chose Charlie Sheen, who had impressed him in *Platoon*. Sheen's portrayal of the ambitious young stockbroker was pivotal to the film's success. For the role of Gordon Gekko, Stone faced resistance from Hollywood insiders who doubted Michael Douglas's acting abilities. However, Stone saw potential in Douglas, who delivered a career-defining performance that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Daryl Hannah was cast as Darien Taylor, Bud Fox's girlfriend, though Stone later admitted she was not the ideal choice for the role. Despite challenges with some cast members, the ensemble, including Martin Sheen and Hal Holbrook, brought depth and authenticity to the film's characters, enhancing the story's impact.
Filming and Cinematic Techniques
Filming *Wall Street* took place primarily in New York City, capturing the bustling energy of the financial district. Stone and cinematographer Robert Richardson employed dynamic camera work to convey the cutthroat nature of Wall Street. The film's visual style, characterized by rapid cuts and fluid camera movements, mirrored the frenetic pace of the stock market.
Stone's attention to detail extended to the film's dialogue, which was crafted to reflect the language and mindset of Wall Street professionals. The iconic "Greed is good" speech, delivered by Gekko, became a cultural touchstone, encapsulating the film's critique of 1980s excess. Through its meticulous production and compelling performances, *Wall Street* remains a powerful exploration of ambition and morality in the financial world.
