The director of 'Interview with the Vampire,' Neil Jordan, reflects on the controversial casting of Tom Cruise as Lestat in the 1994 film adaptation of Anne Rice's novel. Initially, Daniel Day-Lewis was considered for the role, but after meeting Cruise twice, Jordan saw similarities between the actor and the character. Cruise, despite initial backlash, delivered a performance that was later praised, showcasing his acting abilities. The decision faced criticism from fans and even Anne Rice herself, who later acknowledged her mistake, highlighting the challenges faced during casting decisions in the film industry.