Cast
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Julia Roberts
as Katherine Ann Watson
Kirsten Dunst
as Betty Warren
Julia Stiles
as Joan Brandwyn
Maggie Gyllenhaal
as Giselle Levy
Ginnifer Goodwin
as Connie Baker
Dominic West
as Bill Dunbar
Juliet Stevenson
as Amanda Armstrong
Marcia Gay Harden
as Nancy Abbey
John Slattery
as Paul Moore
Marian Seldes
as President Jocelyn Carr
Donna Mitchell
as Mrs. Warren
Terence Rigby
as Dr. Edward Staunton
Jennie Eisenhower
as Girl at the Station
Leslie Lyles
as Housing Director
Laura Allen
as Susan Delacorte
Crew
Director
- Mike Newell
Producer
- Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas
- Paul Schiff
- Deborah Schindler
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Mona Lisa Smile 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 Mike Newell 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 2003, 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 Mona Lisa Smile took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $72.3 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2186 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 467 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Mona Lisa Smile shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Paths, which focuses more on action than character development, Mona Lisa Smile subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like I Don't Know Who You Are and The Colour of His Hair explore similar territory, Mona Lisa Smile 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: December 19, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Budget: $72,300,000
- Revenue: $141,337,989
