The original cut of the film was just about 2-1/2 hours and included a different score and different opening sequence which was just an extended version of the two couples having dinner together followed by an extended scene at the local pub. The entire subplot of discussion of marriage between
Lauren Graham and
Josh Brolin's characters was cut, including a sequence at the end where they are married at a double wedding alongside
Patricia Arquette and
Ewan McGregor's characters. This version also included an extended restaurant scene with Joyce and more contact between her and Martin throughout the film, including a much more graphic death sequence in Joyce's apartment.