What makes it a classic is that it’s great no matter how many times you watch it. The story, the characters, and the dialogue are all among cinema’s best. It also has enough secret behind-the-scenes details to fill up an entire book. Having Andre the Giant on set made every day more interesting. He was a gentle giant who loved to socialize. Everything about him was massive, from his drinks to his flatulence.
Billy Crystal’s small part was dangerously funny. No one could hold their laughter thanks to his ridiculous appearances and expert ad-libs. His costars suffered bruised ribs and nausea or were banished from the set during his scenes. Every actor and crew member was dedicated to making the film the best it could be. They practiced so long for a difficult sword-fighting scene that they did it too well. It was over in only a minute, and they had to rechoreograph it to make it longer. A close inspection will also let you see that they also suffered for their art. You’ll notice a scene where Westley favors his left leg after an injury. There’s another where Inigo is actually knocked out by a bonk on the head from a sword.
The suffering never made them want to stop. They asked for as many takes of the final kiss as possible just so they didn’t have to go home. Many of them consider it their favorite work. Even Pope John Paul II and John Gaudi are fans! Like and subscribe to FactsVerse for more on Hollywood’s most universally beloved films. Watch our video to learn why this scene wasn’t edited, look again at the Princess Bride blooper.