<P> The Truman Show was originally a spec script by Niccol , inspired by an episode of The Twilight Zone called `` Special Service '' . Unlike the finished product , it was more of a science - fiction thriller , with the story set in New York City . Scott Rudin purchased the script , and set up production at Paramount Pictures . Brian De Palma was to direct before Weir signed as director , making the film for $60 million -- $20 million less than the original estimate . Niccol rewrote the script while the crew was waiting for Carrey to sign . The majority of filming took place at Seaside , Florida , a master - planned community located in the Florida Panhandle . </P>
<P> The Truman Show was originally a spec script by Niccol , inspired by an episode of The Twilight Zone called `` Special Service '' . Unlike the finished product , it was more of a science - fiction thriller , with the story set in New York City . Scott Rudin purchased the script , and set up production at Paramount Pictures . Brian De Palma was to direct before Weir signed as director , making the film for $60 million -- $20 million less than the original estimate . Niccol rewrote the script while the crew was waiting for Carrey to sign . The majority of filming took place at Seaside , Florida , a master - planned community located in the Florida Panhandle . </P>
where did the idea for the truman show come from
where did the idea for the truman show come from
inspired by an episode of The Twilight Zone called `` Special Service ''
inspired by an episode of The Twilight Zone called `` Special Service ''