The Only Movies Christopher Nolan Dropped Out of Directing
A director's attachment to a movie doesn't guarantee it will be made, though Christopher Nolan usually follows through on his projects. In contrast, Guillermo del Toro, a three-time Academy Award winner, has spent years developing films that never started shooting, losing over a decade to projects that never materialized.
Since becoming a recognized brand and Oscar winner, Nolan has gained the freedom to choose projects that almost always reach completion. This explains why the only two times he left directing a film were before his blockbuster success with The Dark Knight.
Contrary to popular belief, Nolan did not drop out of the Howard Hughes biopic. Although his version was shelved after Martin Scorsese filmed his own, which could have been a major role for Jim Carrey, Nolan's departure was due to external factors beyond his control.
However, Nolan did step away from The Prisoner, his planned adaptation of the 1960s TV series.
"Nolan was crushed when his version of the story was mothballed after Martin Scorsese got his in front of the cameras first."
This rare departure from projects highlights Nolan's usual commitment to seeing films through to completion.
Author's summary: Christopher Nolan’s rare project withdrawals came before his rise to fame, showing his usual determination to complete every film he directs.