Eric Red revealed that the inspiration for 'The Hitcher' struck him while driving in the rain, reflecting on the Doors' song, 'Riders on the Storm'. He specifically focused on the line about a killer on the road, which set the tone for the tension and horror the film would embrace. Red aimed to delve deeper into the character of John Ryder, transforming him from a mere symbol of terror into a more complex figure that audiences could understand on multiple levels.
Red depicted John Ryder as a character with a damaged larynx who initially communicated using an electronic voice box. This idea was eventually shelved as Red sought to frame Ryder as not just a straightforward villain but as someone who still possessed elements of humanity and depth. He aimed for the ambiguity in Ryder's character to offer both a visceral threat and a trace of empathy, encouraging viewers to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature.
In a candid moment, Eric Red shared that while he considered casting Terence Stamp as the hitcher, he ultimately went with Rutger Hauer. Years later, Stamp expressed his regret for not taking the role after seeing the film. Red noted similarities between Stamp and Hauer’s piercing eyes, calling them 'jewel-like' and 'otherworldly'. About Jim, the protagonist, C Thomas Howell was chosen for his youthful appearance that added a layer of vulnerability to the character as he faced confrontational danger.
Rutger Hauer proposed a unique acting choice for his character, wanting to read poetry while lying next to Jennifer Jason Leigh’s character, Nash. Initially skeptical, Red recalled being an inexperienced director and being anxious about how the scene would unravel. During rehearsals, Hauer recited his own poetry, which Red found comically bad, feeling it might be the end of his directorial career. Ultimately, this experiment showcased Hauer's commitment to portraying the eeriness of Ryder, blending horror with unexpected moments.
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