mel gibson and tom cruise were considered for the part that went to will smith, who took the role largely because he wanted to work with gene hackman, and had previously enjoyed working with producer jerry bruckheimer on "bad boys". george clooney was also considered for a role in the film. sean connery was considered for the role that went to hackman. the film is notable for having cast several soon-to-be stars in smaller supporting roles, which casting director victoria thomas credited to people's interest in working with gene hackman.