More than 25 years after its publication Hope floats continues to hold a special place in the hearts of film fans. Aside from being a sweet second-chance movie – with a star-studded cast, I might add – it’s set in a real Texas town that looks pretty much the same today as it did in 1998.
Whether you’ve seen the film countless times or are discovering it for the first time, these behind-the-scenes facts and little-known details will give you a whole new appreciation for the beloved film that proves that sometimes you just have to give hope a chance to rise.
1. It was Sandra Bullock’s first film as a producer
Hope floats was the first film produced by Sandra Bullock’s production company Fortis Films, giving her creative control over the project. It paved the way for future projects like Miss Congeniality, The George Lopez Show and last The Lost City. Her sister Gesine Bullock-Prado was president of Fortis Films from 1995 to 2000.
This isn’t the only business the sisters have worked on together. When Sandy opened Walton’s Fancy and Staple In Austin in 2009, Gesine helped design the menu, as she is also a professional pastry chef and cookbook author.
2. Directed by Forest Whitaker
You may recognize Forest Whitaker from his roles in films like Platoon, Rogue One And The last king of Scotland (for which he won an Oscar). But he is also a director! In addition to hope floats, he directed Waiting to breathe out And First daughter.
3. It was Harry Connick Jr.’s first major film role
Although already famous as a jazz musician and singer, Hope floats Connick was introduced to many moviegoers as a romantic leading man. Of course, we starred in many films, including Dolphin Tale, New in Town and another film shot in the Austin area Angels sing.
4. Patrick Swayze’s mother worked on the film
I had no idea about it until I researched this article, but the film’s choreography was not done by anyone else. as Patsy Swayze. Patrick Swayze’s mother is a respected choreographer and dance teacher. I’m assuming this is the Texas dance hall scene that she choreographed, since I can’t remember any other dance in the film.
This dance hall is actually the Watterson Hall, which is located about 17 miles from Smithville.
5. Smithville, Texas is a real town
The charming town of Smithville serves as a fictional town, but is actually a real Texas town! Many filming locations can still be visited today. This also includes the beautiful McCollum-Chapman-Trousdale House. Wondering how to see it for yourself? Click here to find out more about all the filming locations.
