Cast
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Shirley Stoler
as Martha
Tony Lo Bianco
as Ray
Mary Jane Higby
as Janet
Doris Roberts
as Bunny
Kip McArdle
as Delphine
Marilyn Chris
as Myrtle
Dortha Duckworth
as Mother
Barbara Cason
as Evelyn
Ann Harris
as Doris
Mary Breen
as Rainelle
Elsa Raven
as Matron
Mary Engel
as Lucy
Guy Sorel
as Mr. Dranoff
Michael Haley
as Jackson
Diane Asselin
as Severns
Crew
Director
- Leonard Kastle
Producer
- Warren Steibel
Reviews
micar6
The "anti-Bonnie and Clyde," as described by the film's director Leonard Kastle. Who? Yeah, I never heard of him either. He made one movie and it's 1) a classic, 2) part of the Criterion Collection, and 3) one of François Truffaut's favorites. It was also a movie Martin Scorsese started to direct but was let go! So what is it? A low-budget, independent true crime story about a notorious team of con artists and killers. It has gorgeous black and white camerawork and excellent acting. It's creepy and original, and entirely gripping.
Sep 15, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Honeymoon Killers 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 Leonard Kastle 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 1970, 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 The Honeymoon Killers took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1261 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Honeymoon Killers shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Honeymoon Killers offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Driving Miss Daisy and Schindler's List explore similar territory, The Honeymoon Killers stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 4, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 48m
Where to Watch
