The Production

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

Production Stills

  The production of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was not a fun one like Lonely are the Brave for Douglas, but it had it's moments.  Of the entire cast, Douglas was the only one who actually did his diving scenes on location in the Bahamas.  Ironically enough, either because Douglas was the most well known star, or perhaps because he had the best agent, he received first billing over James Mason, who, as Nemo, was the main character in the movie.  Quite a coup when one thinks about it.

  This publicity still ended up being seen only in a picture book for children for the British release of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and was never seen in the States until now.  Truly a shame as it is a beautifully taken shot of the great actor in his diving gear.

  Whether a candid shot, or an intentional pose, when I saw this picture, it became a goal in my life to be as well dressed as Douglas in this shot.

  Notice the script under his arm...

  One of the more annoying aspects of filming 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was, no offense to him, Paul Lukas.  Sixty six years old at the time, the actor often had trouble remembering his lines which would only end in arguments with Fleischer and others as to what he was supposed to say.  Evidently though, Lukas managed to pull off at least one perfect take for every shot he is in as his performance appears absolutely flawless.

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