Screenwriter Ed Horowitz has revealed that On Deadly Ground, Steven Seagal's widely panned 1994 directorial debut, was originally written with Clint Eastwood in mind for the lead role. Horowitz, who co-wrote the script with Robin Russin, said Eastwood was keen to take it on, an odd twist given how differently the two actors' careers subsequently played out, with Eastwood becoming a celebrated filmmaker and Seagal a much-derided action star.

The pair worked out of neighbouring offices at Warner Bros, home to Eastwood's Malpaso Productions, where Horowitz sensed friction between the two camps. Seagal ultimately produced, directed and starred in the environmentally themed actioner himself, earning a Worst Director Razzie for his efforts and never directing again. Co-stars including Michael Caine and Billy Bob Thornton have since expressed regret over their involvement in the film.