The next morning, the crew resumed shooting, focusing on completing all the basement scenes. If not for the cold and damp conditions in the warehouse, the lead actor’s scenes could have been finished the previous night. Most of the film’s scenes were to be shot in this temporary set, with some interior shots planned for the rented standalone apartment.
However, the progress wasn’t as smooth as anticipated. Edward Norton, a newcomer, was performing adequately, but Monica Bellucci, playing Jigsaw’s apprentice, was facing several challenges. Without the jaw trap prop, her performance was passable, her good looks adding some charm. But once the jaw trap was on, she became stiff and wooden.
“Remember, you’re an actor, not a model. This isn’t a runway show. Try to express more with your face,” Ryan paused to explain, “Amanda Young is a complex character, not just a pretty face. She’s a survivor of Jigsaw’s game, later becoming his apprentice. It’s much more layered than your previous role as a vampire bride in ‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’.”
Monica fell into deep thought, recalling Amanda’s backstory. After a while, she took a deep breath and said, “I need a moment to prepare.”
“Take ten minutes,” Ryan granted her a break and moved on to shoot another scene.
Nicolas Cage, who had been observing for a while, shook his head, “She’s too eager. She should have honed her skills in independent films first.”
“Saw is an independent film,” Sofia Coppola pointed out.
“You know what I mean. I’m talking about art films, not horror movies. Hollywood is full of pretty faces, but truly skilled actresses are rare,” Cage responded.
“Maybe you’re right,” Sofia admitted, “but she doesn’t have the luxury of time. She needs to establish herself in Hollywood now.”
Cage glanced at Monica, who was still lost in thought, and didn’t argue further. Many actors leave Hollywood every year; she might just be another one. Most famous actresses in Hollywood start as eye candy in commercial films and then pursue awards. Only a few break through from independent films to commercial success, and they often have better career prospects.
After ten minutes, filming resumed, but Ryan had to stop again. Monica looked puzzled, her hard-won emotional state dissipating. Even the crew turned to Ryan, curious.
“This time, it’s about your eyes. Remember, I need expressive eyes that can convey fear, confusion, or contemplation. The jaw trap covers your face, not your eyes,” Ryan explained.
Monica’s eyes widened in realization. She had focused too much on her facial expressions, forgetting the importance of her eyes. “I understand now,” she said, enlightened.
When shooting resumed, Monica’s eyes were more expressive, almost telling a story themselves. The scene went smoothly, though she still looked too beautiful for the gritty role. Compared to the original Amanda actress, Monica was stunning.
“Cut, let’s take a break,” Ryan said, satisfied with the shot.
Monica hurried over, apologetic. “Sorry, Ryan!”
“There’s no need to apologize. You did great,” Ryan assured her, signaling that her performance had met his expectations. “Monica, remember that Amanda is a pivotal character,” he added gently. Amanda’s role was significant not just in the first Saw but also in subsequent films, making her a key figure in the series.
“Thank you, Ryan,” Monica said, visibly moved. If the film succeeded, it would secure her a solid foothold in Hollywood.
“Just keep this momentum going,” Ryan smiled.
Just then, Sofia Coppola rushed in, looking worried. Monica wisely excused herself. “What’s wrong?” Ryan asked.
“The actor playing Detective David Tapp had an issue,” Sofia whispered.
“Inform Helen to find a replacement. Don’t worry about the actor’s race; let the lawyers handle the rest,” Ryan said, a bit frustrated. Such is the plight of a low-budget, lesser-known director. Even with signed contracts, actors often bail for better opportunities or face other issues like drinking or drugs. He didn’t bother to ask what the problem was, trusting the lawyers to enforce the contract.
Each actor had signed a contract, and breaking it would incur a hefty penalty. As for political correctness, it was 1994, not 2004. Black actors didn’t have the same influence in Hollywood then. When Saw was released post-9/11, political dynamics had shifted, and Hollywood often featured righteous Black detectives for political correctness and to draw in Black audiences.
“I’ll call Helen now,” Sofia said, dialing Helen.
Replacing an actor wouldn’t impact the production significantly; Hollywood never runs out of actors. The shooting schedule might need minor adjustments, but that was all.