With regards to the casting of Nicolae, the role has not yet been finalized. This is not as unusual as it seems, given that he does not begin to work until later this month. Just to give an example of the tight wire we love to walk – we cast Jeff Fahey in the role of Thorold Stone in our movie 'Revelation' 48 hours before we began filming. That is often how it is in independent filmmaking. It is a very last minute world. Of course, we always have a great actor (but one who is not a star) audition and on stand by. Sometimes that actor is so gifted that we choose them over the star for the good of the creative part of the film. As you know, that is what happened in the case of Janaya Stephens for the role of Chloe and everyday we are happier with that decision.
Our estimate was that for the Left Behind book alone, if we were to tell the whole story, it would mean a 67 hour movie! However, within the constraints of filmaking we think that the audience will be amazed at how true to the book the storyline and characters are. Yes, we have to adjust a few things to make it work for the big screen, but we think all will be very pleased.
In the book we start on the plane and with the rapture. So how do we get to know Irene and Raymie? It is through the memories of the characters. But, you can't show what someone is thinking in a movie. So instead of constant flashbacks, we start the story a little earlier. We get to meet Irene, Raymie and Chloe before the rapture.
Likewise we also had the Israel miracle in the early part of the film. Wait till you see that – Wow! Paul and I love blowing things up so that it will be a very cool part of the filming. Our wives say we're just like little kids when the special effects guy are on the set. They're right. I've told you our belief before – It's not a real movie until you blow something up.!
