Entertainment

11 Things You Didn't Know About 'Hitchhiker's'

by Loretta Donelan

It's been 10 years since the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy movie came out, and "So Long And Thanks For All The Fish" is still stuck in my head. The movie, though not exceptionally well received, has a special place in my heart. As a fan of the source material, I feel that the 2005 film was able to capture the humor, heart, and vastness of the world that Douglas Adams created. Adams had a large role in making the film, and it remained remarkably true to his vision. It also had an all-star cast, featuring the talents of Zooey Deschanel, Alan Rickman, and Martin Freeman, among many others.

Sure, it's not a perfect movie, but its flaws and quirks make it even more endearing. I think sci-fi with a sense of humor, both about itself as a genre and about the nature of the universe, is underutilized in modern TV, movies, and books. Isn't this universe a crazy place, but doesn't that make it beautiful? is the message of a lot of science fiction, and it comes off particularly well in the humor of the Hitchhiker's Guide books and movies.

A lot of thought went into channeling the previous works of Douglas Adams into the film, and there are lots of little nods that could be easy to miss. Here are some facts you might not have known.

Deep Thought Reveals The Meaning Of Life, The Universe, & Everything Else At A Key Moment In The Film

It's at minute 42.

Douglas Adams' Head Appears As A Planet

In a thoughtful nod (get it?).

The Woman Pictured Here Played Trillian In The Stage Version Of Hitchhiker's

They learned that on the day of shooting.

Douglas Adams' Mother Also Makes An Appearance

She is unperturbed by the end of the world.

Bill Murray, Robert Downey Jr., Will Ferrell, & Johnny Depp Were Considered For The Role Of Zaphod Beeblebrox

But they wisely chose Sam Rockwell.

Douglas Adams Co-Wrote The Screenplay

But he died before it was made. The film is dedicated to him.

Adams Himself Wanted Stephen Fry To Voice The Guide

BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images

It was apparently the hardest voice to cast, but they settled on Adams' original suggestion.

Spike Jonze Turned Down Directing The Film

TIZIANA FABI/AFP/Getty Images

Garth Jennings helmed it instead.

The POV Gun Didn't Appear In Previous Iterations Of Hitchhiker's

Adams developed it specifically for the film.

Deep Thought Is An Apple Product

Adams was an early fan of the company. Can you spot the logo?

The Robot In Line Is The Original Marvin Costume

The costume appeared in the BBC series.

Images: Buena Vista Pictures (9), Getty (2)