Cast
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Kevin Kline
as Howard Brackett
Joan Cusack
as Emily Montgomery
Tom Selleck
as Peter Malloy
Matt Dillon
as Cameron Drake
Debbie Reynolds
as Berniece Brackett
Wilford Brimley
as Frank Brackett
Bob Newhart
as Tom Halliwell
Gregory Jbara
as Walter Brackett
Shalom Harlow
as Sonya
Shawn Hatosy
as Jack
Zak Orth
as Mike
Lauren Ambrose
as Vicky
Deborah Rush
as Ava Blazer
June Squibb
as Cousin Gretchen
Alice Drummond
as Aunt Susan
Crew
Director
- Frank Oz
Producer
- Scott Rudin
Reviews
GenerationofSwine
The movie is hysterical, it really is a funny film, and one that tries its best to stand up for Gay Rights back in the late 90s when Don't Ask Don't Tell was the height of Gay Rights.
Unfortunately people are reviewing this with an eye to the present and claiming that it stereotypes Gay men, and it does to an extent, but I do believe that a lot of the single star reviews would have made the same complaint no matter what they did with the lead character.
The fact is, for its time, for its era, it was part of the wave of films and TV shows that helped to normalize homosexuality in America, and it's that normalization that, more than any activism, helped for the Civil Rights victories we are seeing in the present.
To shun it over politics is literally to bite the hand that feeds you, especially since it has a clear message that homophobia is wrong and it was movies and TV shows like this that helped bring the attitudes and views on homosexuality that everyone supports today.
But, honestly, none of that matters. What matters is entertainment, that is why movies are made. Even informative movies have to have an eye towards entertaining the viewers if they want to actually be watched.
And, this movie is entertaining. This movie is hysterical, even if the masculinity tape was a bit of a stretch of the imagination even for a comedy, it still was a stretch that won one or two laughs from the audience.
Ultimately, it is a funny film that will entertain. So try to leave your political baggage at the door, and, if you can't, realize that it was films like this that helped normalize the views the American public has towards your political agenda...and then sit back and enjoy a funny and uplifting film with a strong moral.
Jan 14, 2023
Thematic Analysis
In & Out represents a fascinating example of 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 Frank Oz 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 1997, 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 In & Out took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $35.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1430 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While In & Out shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Go Fish, which focuses more on action than character development, In & Out subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Caffeine and Brüno explore similar territory, In & Out 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: September 10, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Budget: $35,000,000
- Revenue: $63,900,000
