The Stepford Wives in Hollywood

This chapter shifts focus to the making of The Stepford Wives. It begins by establishing the climate and practices of the US film industry in the 1970s more broadly before examining the specific production and behind the scenes conflicts that took place with The Stepford Wives. Indeed, though the film had all the right ingredients for success, critical responses were mixed, and box office success was limited. Part of this has to do with the pace and length of the film. Other factors include the internal tensions on set, particularly regarding casting choices and the screenplay, which was originally authored by William Goldman, but changed considerably by Forbes.