More than 25 years after its release, Hope Floats continues to hold a special place in the hearts of movie fans. In addition to being a sweet film about second chances – with a star studded cast, I might add – it’s set in a real Texas town that pretty much looks the same today as it did in 1998.
Whether you’ve watched it 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 sometimes you just have to give hope a chance to float up.
1. It was Sandra Bullock’s first film as a producer
Hope Floats was the first movie 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, most recently, The Lost City. Her sister Gesine Bullock-Prado served as president of Fortis Films from 1995 to 2000.
This isn’t the only business the sisters have collaborated on. 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. It was 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 Exhale and First Daughter.
3. It was Harry Connick Jr.’s first major movie role
Although already famous as a jazz musician and singer, Hope Floats introduced many moviegoers to Connick as a romantic leading man. Of course, we went on to star in many films, including Dolphin Tale, New In Town and another Austin area shot film Angels Sing.
4. Patrick Swayze’s mom worked on the movie
had no idea about this one until I was researching for this article but the film’s choreography was handled by none other. than Patsy Swayze. The mother of Patrick Swayze is a respected choreographer and dance instructor. I assume it’s the scene in the Texas dance hall that she choreographed because I can’t recall any other dancing in the film.
By the way, that dance hall is Watterson Hall, located about 17 miles from Smithville.
5. Smithville, Texas is a real town
The charming town of Smithville serves as the fictional town but it’s actually a real town in Texas! Many filming locations can still be visited today. The includes the gorgeous McCollum-Chapman-Trousdale House. Wondering how you can see it for yourself? Click here to learn more about all of the filming locations.
