Here's still more info on the goings ons in INSPECTOR GADGET, particularly the existence of Penny and Brain. Though I have to say, I'm very disappointed from what I've heard of Brain's character... I hope it works, but gosh, I really wanted a more fanciful character than what it seems like we're going to be getting. Oh well...
Your pal Dirk Diggler here once again....its been a long time since my last report, but here is 100% verified info on Gadget that should stop all the speculation your various reports have caused:
Rest easy, Penny and Brain are both in the movie. Penny is being played by Michelle Trachtenburg, who is best known as Harriet the Spy. She is Gadget's niece in the film. Yes, she helps him solve the case. Brain is being played by 3 beagles. His role is somewhat diminished because he isn't going to be CGI enhanced into a Scooby-esque clone. He's just a smart, but real, little hound.
Contrary to some earlier reports, CLAW is being played by Rupert Everett (MY BEST FRIENDS WEDDING), not Hank Azaria (Hank was considered as a Gadget possibility early on). Although he is hidden in shadow early in the film, you WILL see his face.
The essence of Gadget is contained in Matthew Broderick's version of the character, however, he is most certainly NOT doing a Don Adams impersonation. That was what always bugged me the most about the cartoons-- the character was so derivative. Matthew has kept the naiviety and the inability to see the clue in front of his face, but has given the character much more texture and nuance-- a fully rounded character as opposed to a "cartoon." Although the characters are very different, you could say that Matthew is to Gadget as Brendan Fraser was to George of the Jungle-- the spirit has remained intact, but the actor has brought himself into the character and made it his own.
Lastly, Pittsburgh is playing the mythical city of Riverton, where Gadget lives and works. For those of you familiar with the city, the 6th Street bridge is where the climax of the film takes place (sorry, Harry, I'm not going to spoil the end and give details), car chase and general car scenes will be shot all over the city, a scene will be shot at that park that juts out into the river across from the stadium (I think it's called Point Park, but I can't be sure) and the Pacific Plate and Glass building will also play a huge role.
More to come.
Dirk
