Movie Madness #1 Trivia Quiz

Answer: magnolia

Hidden several times throughout the film are the words "Exodus 8:2" (or simply the numbers "8:2"). These are pointers to the Bible verse which reads, "And if thou refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with frogs." The reference will make sense to anyone who has seen this masterpiece by writer-director P.T.Anderson.

Answer: all references to homosexuality or bisexuality were removed

Although subtly handled, the film openly deals with a love-triangle between Sally Bowles and two bisexual men. This is just part of what made 'Cabaret' such a controversial film when it was made - in fact the movie was orginally released under an 'X' certificate.

It also has the dubious honour of being the film to garner the most Academy Awards (8) without winning Best Picture - which went to 'The Godfather'.

Answer: Lars von Trier

It is said von Trier can be very difficult to work with, and had a severe personality-clash with Björk. Tensions on-set ran high throughout production, and at one point the star became so outraged, she tore von Trier's shirt with her teeth before running from the set.

She disappeared completely and filming was suspended indefinitely, but she returned three days later. Björk has often stated that due to the stress she endured on 'Dancer In The Dark', she will never appear in another film.

Answer: Sean Connery was approached for the role of Gandalf

Although rumours of Sean Connery's involvement circulated when the film was announced, he was never approached. Daniel Day Lewis passed on the role of Aragorn which then went to Stuart Townsend. For various reasons, Townsend agreed to leave the project just after filming began, leading to Viggo Mortensen's taking of the role at the last minute.

Answer: Baraka

Filmed over 6 continents and 24 countries, the 'Baraka' team invented a new type of camera rig specifically for this project. The movie features music by Michael Stearns and Dead Can Dance, amongst the tribal music of many of the film's subjects, such as Monks of the Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery. The word 'Baraka' exists in many different languages, and means "blessing".

Answer: it is the first film in which Chaplin's character is given a name (Adenoid Hynkel)

Although his most famous character was referred to only as The Tramp, he had played other characters with names early in his career. 'The Great Dictator' began production in 1937, but by the end of its 500+ day shoot, more details were coming to light of just how horrific the Nazi's activities were.

This prompted Chaplin to remove a comical ending involving soldiers folk-dancing, and opt instead for the film's now-famous final monologue.

Answer: Terrence Malick

An eccentric and reclusive figure, Terrence Malick has made precious few films in his career, but regardless holds a reputation as one of the true greats. The initial cut of 'The Thin Red Line' was over 6 hours long, and several big-name stars had their parts radically reduced or cut completely from the final edit.

Answer: Tom Hanks

A young Kenneth Branagh was initially cast, but director Milos Forman later decided to cast Americans in all the lead roles. Mel Gibson lobbied for the role, as did Tim Curry and Mark Hammill, both of whom had played the part on Broadway. The part finally went to Tom Hulce. Mirroring their rivalry in the film, the actors playing Mozart and Salieri were both nominated for Best Actor at the Oscars, the award going to F. Murray Abraham for his portrayal of Salieri.

Answer: Joan Allen

Utterly robbed at the Oscars with not a single nomination, this movie showcases top-notch performances from Kline, Allen and Weaver, as well as young stars Tobey Maguire, Christina Ricci and Elijah Wood.

Answer: Terry Jones

Terry Jones's screenplay was re-drafted by an uncredited Elaine May. Look closely at the scenes in Sarah's bedroom at the beginning and end of 'Labyrinth', and the film takes on a whole new level. Examining the set-decoration you will see allusions to almost every character and location from the Labyrinth fantasy, and realise Sarah's (deceased) mother was a famous actress - the costumes, make-up and play-script Sarah always plays with were her mother's. Thus, 'Labyrinth' is really a film about her coming to terms with an adult-life - moving on from, but never forgetting, her childhood fantasies.
Hope you enjoyed the quiz.
With thanks to the Internet Movie Database (www.imdb.com).