Herman J. Mankiewicz, having agreed to assume the helm (as director) of the troubled film Cleopatra, soon came to regret his decision.
While Fox studio chief Daryl Zanuck sought to narrow the scope of the film, already well over budget, Mankiewicz fought to retain his artistic vision and a coherent story. Once the dust had settled (on a project which remains among the most expensive films ever produced), the beleaguered director was asked to participate in a fluffy NBC tribute program entitled "The World of Daryl Zanuck".
Mankiewicz agreed, on condition that the program's title be slightly altered. His suggestion: "STOP The World of Daryl Zanuck!"
[How bad was the film? Elizabeth Taylor, who skipped the American premiere, attended the London screening, whereupon she hurried back to her hotel (the Dorchester) -- and promptly threw up.]
Sources
Vanity Fair`s Hollywood
