WHAT WENT WRONG WHAT WENT WRONG

Three Kings

Aug 17, 2026 · 1h 26m

Summary

Hosts Chris Winterbauer and Lizzie Bassett analyze the chaotic production of David O. Russell’s 1999 war satire *Three Kings*. They discuss the film’s origins from John Ridley’s script, Russell’s contentious rewriting process, and George Clooney’s persistent campaign to star despite initial resistance. The episode covers the Gulf War context, casting challenges, and the hosts’ appreciation for the movie’s visual style and performances.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: Citizens Bank and Brahmi Pasta Patreon bonus episodes announcement Three Kings review and cast discussion Historical context: Gulf War and Operation Desert Storm David O. Russell's early life and career Sponsors: Built, Drip Drop, and Helix Sleep Script development and John Ridley credit dispute Casting George Clooney, Spike Jonze, and Mark Wahlberg Studio concerns, visual style, and production design Chaotic filming process and on-set behavior Clooney-Russell conflict and directorial abuse Post-production, political screenings, and legacy Conclusion, Patreon thanks, and next episode preview
Listen ad-free on Castria