Geena Davis, who played Veronica Quaife in the first film, was replaced by Saffron Henderson for the sequel, as Davis refused to reprise her role due to her character's death in the first act disallowing the opportunity for character development. Keanu Reeves was offered the role of Brundle but turned it down as he disliked the script. Josh Brolin was passed after a failed audition for the role. The Fly II is an early entry in the filmography of Frank Darabont, who co-wrote the screenplay. Tom Sullivan worked as a sculptor for the film's visual effects. Ken and Jim Wheat were tasked with rewriting Mick Garris 's draft of the screenplay after Fox turned down the duo's proposal for After Midnight The Wheat's described the initial draft of the film as "broad" and attempted to refocus the film but were unable to do so due to Fox's rushed schedule as well as receiving notes from eight different people that were oftentimes in conflict with each other.