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As opposed to the original stage production, the movie made it possible to showcase stars who were the age peers of the characters.

Actors and actresses of a certain age and stature were contacted to see whether they were both interested in and physically capable of playing the roles.

Many screen greats were approached to play a role but demurred because they suffered from various infirmities, e. g., Shirley Booth, Barbara Stanwyck, Fred Astaire, Paul Henreid.

Other greats turned down the producers ' overtures for other reasons, e. g., Joel McCrea, Frances Dee, Katharine Hepburn, John Gielgud.

Even Davis and Gish turned down the parts more than once before being persuaded to star in the film.