Cast
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Crew
Director
- Bob Peterson
Writer
- Bob Peterson
Producer
- Kim Collins
Reviews
CinemaSerf
"Carl" is a widower struggling to get back into the dating game following the death of his much loved wife. Fortunately, he has his savvy mutt "Dug" to help him choose his clothes and to generally get his mojo back - only this four-legged friend tends to think of things rather more in doggy terms than in human ones. It's a fun, short and sweet, glimpse at the couple and their interdependence and moves along nicely, if unremarkably, for a few minutes peppered with some enjoyable observational dialogue. It might well resonate better with dog owners/lovers who can probably appreciate the symbiosis here, perhaps not so much with others - but it is an OK little, nicely detailed, animation to watch.
Jul 21, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Carl's Date represents a fascinating example of Animation/Adventure/Family/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Bob Peterson 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 pacing and visual storytelling 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Carl's Date took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 9 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 39 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2023, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Carl's Date shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Double or Nothing, which focuses more on action than character development, Carl's Date subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ben-Hur and Manhattan explore similar territory, Carl's Date 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: June 15, 2023
- Runtime: 9m
Where to Watch
