"Times like these call for a Big Lebowski."
The Big Lebowski - Easter Eggs & Hidden Details
Easter Eggs
Steve Buscemi's character, Donny, is the opposite of his character in the Coens' previous film, "Fargo." In "Fargo," Carl Showalter is extremely chatty, while his partner is nearly silent. In "Lebowski," Donny can barely get a word in before Walter tells him to shut up.
This is a characteristic inside joke from the Coen Brothers, who often use a repertory company of actors. It creates a playful connection between their films for dedicated fans.
One of the German nihilists, Uli Kunkel (played by Peter Stormare), orders pancakes at a diner. In "Fargo," Stormare's character desperately wants to go to a pancake house but never gets to.
This is another subtle nod to "Fargo," paying off a minor running gag from the previous film and rewarding attentive viewers who are familiar with the Coens' work.
The date on The Dude's 69-cent check at the beginning of the film is September 11, 1991. The televised speech by President George H.W. Bush about Iraq's aggression was given on August 5, 1990.
This anachronism is likely intentional. It suggests The Dude is so broke that he has to post-date a check for a trivial amount by over a year, adding another layer of comedy to his financial situation.
Aimee Mann, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has a cameo as one of the German nihilists—the one who sacrifices her toe.
This is a fun cameo for music fans, adding another quirky element to the film's eclectic cast.
In the original script, Bunny Lebowski's real name was Fawn Gunderson, a nod to Marge Gunderson, the protagonist of "Fargo."
This detail, though not in the final film, shows the interconnected creative universe of the Coen Brothers and their habit of linking their projects in subtle ways.