Daisy Ridley Opens Up About Challenging $13 Million Sci-Fi Failure with Tom Holland Three Years Later: “Not Without Its Difficulties”

Daisy Ridley has recently opened up about the challenges encountered during the production of her science fiction film Chaos Walking, which flopped spectacularly, earning only $13 million domestically against a hefty budget estimated between $100 million and $120 million. This discussion comes three years after the film’s release. At the time of filming, Ridley was basking in the success of her portrayal of the heroic Rey in the Star Wars franchise, while co-star Tom Holland was gaining fame as the beloved Spider-Man within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Despite their established star power, both actors have faced significant obstacles in their careers outside of these blockbuster franchises. Ridley’s independent films, including Sometimes I Think About Dying and Young Woman and the Sea, have garnered little audience attention. Similarly, Holland’s attempts to branch out from his superhero role with films like Cherry and The Devil All the Time have not fared well with critics or at the box office.

Ridley’s Insights on Chaos Walking

The Challenges of the Production

Sometimes I Think About Dying Movie Poster

Daisy Ridley in Sometimes I Think About Dying

Released in 2021, Chaos Walking experienced numerous production troubles, leading to its disappointing box office performance. The film’s shooting commenced in 2017 under the direction of Doug Liman, but a series of issues plagued the project. Notably, its original 2019 release was delayed as extensive reshoots were mandated, eventually resulting in a change of director.

Reflecting on her experience, Ridley candidly shared her thoughts on the obstacles faced during filming. In a conversation with Empire Magazine, she discussed Liman’s distinctive approach to directing and recounted a particularly harrowing scene where she had to portray a character unable to swim.

“The filming of this was… not without its difficulties. Doug [Liman] works in a way that is different to most people that I’ve worked with. Very off-the-cuff. But this scene, I remember feeling the abject terror of playing someone who cannot swim, and going out into quite a fast running river. I can swim, but when you’re playing someone who can’t swim, the panic gets to you. But I love that outfit, love that wig, and we take what we can from these things.”

Analysis of Ridley’s Comments

Reflections on the Big-Budget Flop

Chaos Walking's Viola and Todd run through the woods

Both Ridley and Holland seem eager to step beyond their Disney legacies but have struggled to find their footing in alternative projects. Despite the high expectations surrounding Chaos Walking, based on a well-known novel and directed by a prominent filmmaker, the film ultimately did not meet audience or critical expectations.

Looking ahead, Ridley’s upcoming thriller Cleaner, scheduled for release on February 21, 2025, may provide an opportunity for redemption. However, it’s worth noting that by the time Chaos Walking was ready for audiences, the dystopian young adult sci-fi genre had already faded from popularity. This shift in audience interests contributed to its lackluster reception, despite the perceived drawing power of its leading actors.

Ridley’s recent comments further emphasize the tumultuous nature of the film’s production, shedding light on the uncertainty and challenges faced on set. While she managed to maintain a positive outlook regarding her costume, her reflections underscore the difficulties intrinsic to filmmaking.

Source: Empire Magazine

Source & Images