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Kevin Macdonald Reflects on 'State of Play' Casting Shift

8/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Filmmaker Kevin Macdonald highlighted his 2009 film State of Play as a significant moment in Hollywood, originally intended for Brad Pitt.
Due to Pitt's disapproval of the screenplay, Russell Crowe was cast instead.
Andrew Macdonald recounted their early short film experience, which led to the series Shadowing and collaborations on Shallow Grave and Trainspotting.
The Edinburgh Film Festival concludes on August 20.

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Story summary

Filmmaker Kevin Macdonald highlighted his 2009 film State of Play as a significant moment in Hollywood, originally intended for Brad Pitt.
Due to Pitt's disapproval of the screenplay, Russell Crowe was cast instead.
Andrew Macdonald recounted their early short film experience, which led to the series Shadowing and collaborations on Shallow Grave and Trainspotting.
The Edinburgh Film Festival concludes on August 20.