The film may feel like a comedy, but it also has some serious things to say about the legal system and the death penalty.
Director Jonathan Lynn told Abnormal Use, “For me personally, what the film was about is how wrong capital punishment is and how people can so easily be executed when they’re not guilty if they’re not adequately represented or if there’s a lack of relevant evidence available.”
Lorraine Bracco Was the First Choice for Mona Lisa Vito
While she was at the height of her success, actress Lorraine Bracco was offered the role of Mona Lisa Vito. She refused due to personal issues, and the role was then offered to Geena Davis, who also turned it down.
When they passed, they opened the door for newcomer Marisa Tomei to be cast, and eventually win an Oscar for the role.
Andrew Dice Clay Was Supposed to Play Vinny
He tells the story in his 2014 autobiography, ' The Filthy Truth' . According to Clay, the film was developed with him in mind at Fox, but the studio backed out after the failure of his film ' The Adventures of Ford Fairlane' .
Other actors which were considered for the role include Danny DeVito and Jim Belushi.
Mitchell Whitfield Went on to Play Barry, Rachel's Ex on 'Friends'
Actor Mitchell Whitfield was almost cast as Ross on legendary sitcom ' Friends' , he lost out on the part to David Schwimmer at the last minute and was cast as Rachel’s ex-fiancé, Barry, instead.
He told Abnormal Use about the experience, saying, “Someone once asked me, “What was it like kissing Jennifer Aniston?” I said, “Okay, imagine kissing someone that you really have no romantic feelings for in front of 200 people in 120 degree lights with no top on in a dentist chair. How do you think that went down? Not too good. Yeah, that’s about it. Not too good. It was kind of awkward and sweaty.”
Judge Haller Was Famous for Playing Herman Munster
Fred Gwynne, who played judge Haller in ' Vinny' , is best known for his work on iconic television series ' The Munsters' . Abnormal Use asked Mitchell Whitfield what it was like to be tried by Herman Munster. He replied, “Let me tell you something.
Fred Gwynne was such a great guy. Such a good soul and a good heart. It’s a very intimidating presence and of course, growing up – a lot of people remember him, obviously, as Herman Munster, but he’s a great actor."