Cast
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Shohreh Aghdashloo
as Exiled actress
Mansour
as Houshang
David Diaan
as Parviz
Diane Gaidry
as Lucy
Houshang Touzie
as Sahmi
Ally Porabas
as Hamid (as Alan De Satti)
Atossa Leoni
as Maryam
Hallie Bird
as Girlfriend
Kamilla Bjorlin
as
John Cato
as
Michael Tuba Heatherton
as Uncle Sam/Accordionist/Fantasy Bouncer
Zakareth Ruben
as American girl
Crew
Director
- Babak Shokrian
Writer
- Babak Shokrian
- Brian Horiuchi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, America So Beautiful examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Babak Shokrian 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 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of America So Beautiful took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2233 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While America So Beautiful shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Staying Alive, which focuses more on action than character development, America So Beautiful subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Saturday Night Fever and Lower City explore similar territory, America So Beautiful 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: October 11, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 31m
