Cast
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Rachelle Lefevre
as Tess Delaney
Niall Matter
as Damhnaic McAuley
Helena Marie
as Isabel
Phoebe Miu
as Kiley
Nathalie Boltt
as Shannon
Donia Kash
as Suzette
Amber Lewis
as Lydia
Tasya Teles
as Lourdes
Javier Lacroix
as Ernesto
Gabriela Reynoso
as Estella
Adina Insley
as Small Girl
Lynn Whyte
as Sofia Sheffield
Scott McGrath
as Ben Trianon
Kalyn Miles
as Doctor Denton
Milagros Vidal
as Worker
Crew
Director
- Heather Hawthorn-Doyle
Writer
- Jamie Pachino
Producer
- Robin Weiner
- Kate Gajdosik
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Secrets of Bella Vista 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 Heather Hawthorn-Doyle 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 2022, 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 The Secrets of Bella Vista took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2022, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: September 18, 2022
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
