National Treasure (2004) and Fortress (1992)

In this episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew, a dose of Nicolas Cage, and a futuristic prison movie.

National Treasure (2004) was originally announced for a summer 2000 release. Yet by the time it finally got going, it had nine writers who'd worked on it - and Nicolas Cage agreeing to star.

1992's Fortress meanwhile was originally developed as a vehicle for Arnold Schwarzenegger. When he turned it down, the budget was slashed - but in the hands of star Christopher Lambert and director Stuart Gordon, it'd be in profit before it opened in America.

Stories of both are told in this episode.

Find Simon on Twitter at @simonbrew, and the podcast can be found at @filmstoriespod.

Support this podcast: www.patreon.com/simonbrew.