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A Boy and His Car

A Boy and His Car (1990)

Jun 12, 1990 24m Drama Family

Playing hooky from school, Tony, a student/chorister at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, spends the afternoon at Central Park's Sailboat lake and retrieves a remote control device left behind by a pair of sailboat racers. Back in the schoolyard, Tony pretends that he has a car to go with the remote control. When another boy tries to take the control from him, it falls on the ground and a red remote-control sports car miraculously appears. The car "dances" to rap music and even brings Tony a can of soda. One day, a sinister-looking man with a briefcase steals the car and flees into the subway. Tony and his classmates pursue the thief to the Wall Street area and ask to inspect the briefcases of passing businessmen. Eluding the students, the crook hails a taxi and hurls the briefcase from the window. Next morning, Tony hears the sound of a sports car during a church service. Returning to its rightful owner, the magical car mysteriously reappears at the end of the processional.

Directed by Mark Ruzzin

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Mark Ruzzin
Writer
  • Anne Richardson
Producer
  • Anne Richardson

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, A Boy and His Car examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Mark Ruzzin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1990, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of A Boy and His Car took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 24 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 57 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 430 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1990, when this film was released:
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While A Boy and His Car shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Sunnyside, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Boy and His Car offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Baby Face and Manhattan explore similar territory, A Boy and His Car stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 12, 1990
  • Runtime: 24m

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