Dangerous Film:-One of the most dangerous films in the world is considered to be ‘Roar’ released in 1981. This film was not only scary, know more about it 
Film:-The world of cinema has seen countless films with risky and thrilling productions, but none come close to the danger that surrounded the making of “Roar”, a film released in 1981. Dubbed the “most dangerous movie ever made,” its production was a decade-long journey fraught with peril, injuries, and near-death experiences. Let’s dive into the incredible and terrifying story of this legendary film.
The Vision Behind “Roar”
“Roar” was directed by Noel Marshall, who also co-starred in the movie alongside his wife, actress Tippi Hedren, their daughter Melanie Griffith, and his sons. The idea behind the film was to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wild animals, specifically big cats like lions and tigers. However, the execution of this noble idea turned into a real-life horror story.
To make the film as authentic as possible, the crew decided to work with 150 live wild animals, including lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards, and elephants. These were not trained animals but real, untamed predators. While this added to the realism of the film, it also made the set unimaginably dangerous.
A Set Full of Chaos and Injuries
During the film’s production, over 70 people were injured, including cast members, crew, and even the director himself. Here are some of the most shocking incidents:
- Tippi Hedren’s Attack:
In one terrifying incident, Tippi Hedren was attacked by a lion, resulting in 38 stitches on her neck. Another time, she was thrown off an elephant, leading to a fractured leg. - Melanie Griffith’s Close Call:
Tippi and Noel’s daughter, Melanie Griffith, had her face mauled by a lion. She needed 50 stitches, and doctors feared she might lose her eye. Fortunately, she recovered, though the scars remained as a grim reminder of the ordeal. - Noel Marshall’s Injuries:
The director himself was attacked several times. He suffered deep wounds from lion bites, leading to infections, including gangrene, and spent six months in the hospital. - Cinematographer’s Ordeal:
Cinematographer Jan de Bont, who later directed movies like Speed, was scalped by a lion. His injuries required 220 stitches, yet he continued working on the film after recovering. - General Chaos:
The film’s set was a constant scene of chaos. Lions would roam freely, often attacking cast and crew. Crew members would scream for help, but Noel Marshall, determined to finish the movie, rarely halted production.
The Cost of Ambition
The film took 11 years to complete, and its budget spiraled due to delays, injuries, and medical bills. Originally set to cost around $2 million, the final cost ballooned to $17 million.
Despite the staggering effort, “Roar” was a box-office failure. Audiences found the premise unsettling, and the film earned back only a fraction of its budget. Over time, however, it gained a cult following due to its audacity and the stories of survival from its set.
Legacy of “Roar”
While “Roar” failed commercially, its impact is undeniable. It remains a chilling reminder of the risks filmmakers sometimes take for authenticity. Tippi Hedren and her family later became advocates for wildlife conservation and opened a big cat sanctuary to provide a safe space for animals.
The story of “Roar” is more than just a tale of cinematic ambition. It’s a testament to the human spirit, both its resilience and its recklessness. Today, the film is remembered not just for its message but for the extraordinary and dangerous circumstances in which it was made.