According to an interview with Spike Lee, Ron Howard had shown interest in directing.

Kate Hudson was considered for the role of Madeleine, but when Ron Howard was replaced by Spike Lee as director, the production team decided to age the character.

Spike Lee offered Washington his choice of the two lead roles. Washington choose the role of the cop because his face wasn't covered througout most of the movie.

Considered for the role of Madeleine.