Synopsis
After witnessing the execution of a notorious serial killer, Philadelphia homicide detective John Hobbes finds himself investigating a new series of murders that closely match the dead man's methods. As the case deepens, Hobbes discovers that the killings are connected to an ancient supernatural force capable of passing from person to person through physical contact.
Factoids & Trivia
- The screenplay began as a collaboration connected to an adaptation of James Ellroy's novel The Big Nowhere. The project shifted direction when the original Fallen script impressed the filmmakers.
- The production chose to keep the demon largely unseen. Its presence is suggested through possession, recurring behavior, and changes in ordinary people rather than through a conventional monster design.
- Elias Koteas prepared for the death-row dialogue by meeting a speaker of Syrian Aramaic in Ohio. A second speaker was eventually needed because the first would not record the profane portions of the speech for religious reasons.
- The sudden rafter collapse in the cabin was added after test screenings. In the original version, Hobbes simply discovered the book in the basement; a loud theater-door bang during one screening suggested the value of an unexpected scare.
- The name Azazel has roots in Jewish religious tradition and is associated with the scapegoat ritual of Yom Kippur. The film uses that meaning as part of its demonic mythology.
- Denzel Washington prepared for the detective role by accompanying local police officers on ride-alongs. He learned, among other details, that some detectives kept spare shoes in their cars because footwear could become stained at murder scenes.
- The name John Hobbes combines references to philosophers Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, whose contrasting views of human nature echo the film's concern with evil, morality, and social order.
- Nicholas Kazan wrote the character of Jonesy specifically with John Goodman in mind.
- Principal photography took place from October 18, 1996, through January 18, 1997, with locations including Philadelphia, New Jersey's Pine Barrens, and the Bear Mountain Bridge area of New York.