R in the United States, in 1971 it was edited and re-rated GP (now PG). The film was considered graphically violent for its time, especially the fist fight scene that ends the film, between Rod Taylor's Travis Mcgee and the film's villain, Terry (played by William Smith). Director Steven Soderbergh said the fight's ferocity was considered "jaw dropping" for its era. With the cameras rolling Rod Taylor hit William Smith who retaliated in kind, and a staged fight scene became a real fight. Smith later reported that Taylor was "a very tough guy" who broke three of his ribs while he broke Taylor's nose. After Darker Than Amber ran its course in theaters, both Rod Taylor and William Smith would reportedly be considered for the part of Caucasian martial artist Roper in the 1973 Bruce Lee blockbuster Enter the Dragon, which would also be helmed by Darker Than Amber director Robert Clouse. The role would ultimately go to John Saxon, however. See also List of American films of 1970 References Bibliography External links 1970 films Travis McGee (novel series) American detective films Films based on American novels Films based on works by John D. MacDonald 1970s English-language films 1970s mystery films American mystery films 1970s American films