Cast
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Nicole Kidman
as Anna
Cameron Bright
as Young Sean
Danny Huston
as Joseph
Lauren Bacall
as Eleanor
Alison Elliott
as Laura
Arliss Howard
as Bob
Michael Desautels
as Sean
Anne Heche
as Clara
Peter Stormare
as Clifford
Ted Levine
as Mr. Conte
Cara Seymour
as Mrs. Conte
Joe M. Chalmers
as Sinclair
Novella Nelson
as Lee
Zoe Caldwell
as Mrs. Hill
Charles Goff
as Mr. Drummond
Crew
Director
- Jonathan Glazer
Producer
- Nick Morris
- Jean-Louis Piel
- Lizie Gower
Reviews
John Chard
You know I loved Sean so much, and its been so long that I still can't get him out of my system.
I remember when it was released in 2004, there was a big hurrah about "the" bath scene, many vitriolic complaints about how slow it was, how not scary it was et al. Birth is many wonderful film making things, of course not all of those things will resonate or enthral many of the movie watching populace, yet there is such craft on both sides of the camera here, and an atmospherically ambiguous bloodline pulsing throughout, that marks it out as a particularly striking film.
Plot finds Nicole Kidman as Anna, who is about to be re-married but finds her world tipped upside down when a young boy (Cameron Bright) arrives on the scene and announces he is the reincarnation of her dead first husband...
Director Jonathan Glazer and his co-writers Jean-Claude Carrière & Milo Addica are purposely being vague, I mean lets face it, the topic to hand is exactly that, vague, and ripe for countless hours of discussion. The film simmers along deftly, meditations on love, grief and anger are skilfully portrayed by all involved. Even a birthing tunnel metaphor doesn't come off as self indulgent, from the off Glazer wants and gets those interested in the story to buy into the hypnotic qualities on show. To jump on board with Anna's fragility while all around her battle for rhyme or reason with her mindset.
In truth it's a hard sell as a piece of entertainment, there's still today, over a decade since it was released, people miffed that the hinted at supernatural elements are not key to the narrative. While the thin line of good and bad taste - and maybe even pretentiousness - is being tested by the makers, but the charges of Birth being dull are just wrong. It never shows its hand, the mystery always remains strong, while Kidman and Lauren Bacall are reason enough to admire the acting craft on show.
Hated by many, inducing even anger in some quarters, Birth is a tantalising picture. A conundrum designed to get a response, for better or worse. 8/10
Mar 20, 2015
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Birth 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 Jonathan Glazer 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 2004, 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 Birth took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 349 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Birth shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Porch Pirates, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Birth offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The King of Comedy and Breathless explore similar territory, Birth stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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 29, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $23,900,000
