Edward Norton Didn't Have A Choice When It Came Down To The Italian Job
Edward Norton was a hot commodity in the late '90s. Coming off of roles in major films like "Fight Club," "American History X," and "Rounders," Norton had hit it big and was regularly popping up in two to three movies per year. However, as the performer was becoming increasingly sought after by studios, a definite mark of having made it in Hollywood, this popularity also became something of a problem for him.
According to Observer, though Paramount Pictures had given Norton his big break in "Primal Fear," they had also made him sign an agreement to make two future films with them. Though this might not sound like a bad deal, especially for an up-and-coming actor, as Norton continued to get offered one high-profile project after another, he and Paramount began to butt heads.
Finally, as Paramount prepared to launch a suit that would keep the actor out of "Fight Club," Norton and Paramount came to an agreement that he would only do one further film for them. However, when the time came, Norton did not expect to be forced into doing a movie he didn't want to be a part of. This is exactly what happened with the 2003 "The Italian Job" remake, though, which cast Norton as its villain despite his protests.
Norton was enraged at being coerced into doing the film
According to a statement from Edward Norton's lawyer, Marty Singer, the actor had a verbal agreement with Sherry Lansing, the chairman of Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Group. "Mr. Norton was told that he would never have to do a movie against his wishes, and Paramount was insisting that he do this movie. And if he didn't agree, they'd sue him," said Mr. Singer. "Rather than get involved in extensive litigation, [Mr. Norton] agreed to do the movie."
Despite not wanting to do "The Italian Job," the remake did end up being a success more or less across the board, even as Norton distanced himself from the project. The movie ended up grossing over $175 million off of its $60 million budget and was mostly well-received by critics and viewers alike.
Though Norton was clearly unhappy about being forced into the project nonetheless, Rob Friedman, the COO and vice chairman of Paramount Pictures, admitted that the actor remained professional as part of "The Italian Job." "He's going to be there. He's been very professional about living up to his commitment, and he's indicated as such in conversations with our management," Friedman said.