Development for "Hollywoodland" began in 2001 when Focus Features purchased Bernbaum's script, titled "Truth, Justice, and the American Way". Michael and Mark Polish were set to direct with Benicio del Toro in the lead role, but Focus Features placed the film in turnaround to Miramax Films the following year. Ultimately, "Truth, Justice, and the American Way" became a joint production between the two studios and filming commenced in May 2005, with veteran television director Coulter making his feature film directorial debut. Due to copyright issues with DC Comics, the film was retitled "Hollywoodland" and released to generally positive reviews.