Cast
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Jennifer Grey
as Gwen Shamblin
Brittany Drisdelle
as Adrienne
Jorja Cadence
as Elizabeth Shamblin Hannah
Karen Cliche
as Natasha
Vincent Walsh
as Joe Lara
Connor McMahon
as Brandon Hannah
Michael Hearn
as Gwen's Lawyer
Frank Fiola
as TV Executive
Evelyne Morissette
as Client
Willow Astbury
as Young Elizabeth
Adam LeBlanc
as Josh Kitt
Karine Dion
as Tammy
Dylan Colton
as Michael Shamblin
Eloïse Tanguay Simard
as Josh's Wife
Teneisha Collins
as Carmen
Crew
Director
- John L'Ecuyer
Writer
- Gregory Small
- Richard Blaney
Producer
- R.J. Gilbert
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Gwen Shamblin: Starving for Salvation 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 John L'Ecuyer 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 2023, 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 Gwen Shamblin: Starving for Salvation took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2023, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Gwen Shamblin: Starving for Salvation shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Donnie Brasco, which focuses more on action than character development, Gwen Shamblin: Starving for Salvation offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Private Parts and Two for the Money explore similar territory, Gwen Shamblin: Starving for Salvation 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: February 4, 2023
- Runtime: 1h 28m
Where to Watch
