The Untold Truth Of The Mask

The origins of The Mask can be traced back to comic book creator Mike Richardson, who came up with the concept in 1982, as per CBR. However, the Dark Horse comic book run of "The Mask," which was helmed by Doug Mahnke and John Arcudi, was where the more recognizable version of the character was fully developed. Richardson knew he had something special on his hands, so he and his business partner, Todd Moyer, shopped the idea around Hollywood to potential suitors. Eventually, New Line Cinema bought the rights to make the movie.

Richardson revealed to The Los Angeles Times that there were several big offers on the table, but he and Moyer chose a smaller one from New Line for a specific reason. "Warner Bros. wanted it, but [former New Line president of production] Mike De Luca guaranteed us that he would make the movie," he said. "We didn't want to take the chance of selling it and never see it made." While it took a while for "The Mask" to finally spin its way into cinemas, De Luca stayed true to his word and made the film.