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He Was Once

He Was Once (1989)

Nov 01, 1989 16m Comedy Animation

This bizarre parody of the animated religious children’s show Davey and Goliath uses actors but looks like Claymation because of the stop motion, distorted voices, giant prosthetic ears and hair and sets that make Pee-Wee’s Playhouse look realistic. Davey’s father whips him with a belt for saying that he saw a bear, though he really did see a bear, while his sister looks on in glee. His dog Goliath, actually a leopard-skin footrest with a grotesque tail, tries to help but gets whipped too. Oedipal dream sequences and Davey’s revenge are also highlights in this unforgettable and darkly hilarious suburban nightmare.

Directed by Mary Hestand

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Mary Hestand
Writer
  • Mary Hestand
Producer
  • Barry Ellsworth
  • Todd Haynes
  • Christine Vachon

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Thematic Analysis

He Was Once represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Animation 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 Mary Hestand 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 1989, 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 He Was Once took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 16 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 44 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2400 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 285 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1989, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While He Was Once shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Memorable, which focuses more on action than character development, He Was Once subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Yoghurt and I Was a Teenage Serial Killer explore similar territory, He Was Once 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: November 1, 1989
  • Runtime: 16m

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