Cast
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Warren Beatty
as Joe Pendleton
Julie Christie
as Betty Logan
James Mason
as Mr. Jordan
Jack Warden
as Max Corkle
Charles Grodin
as Tony Abbott
Dyan Cannon
as Julia Farnsworth
Buck Henry
as The Escort
Vincent Gardenia
as Krim
Joseph Maher
as Sisk
Hamilton Camp
as Bentley
Arthur Malet
as Everett
Stephanie Faracy
as Corinne
Jeannie Linero
as Lavinia
Harry D.K. Wong
as Gardener
George J. Manos
as Security Guard
Crew
Director
- Buck Henry
- Warren Beatty
Producer
- Warren Beatty
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Maybe Warren Beatty was also a fan of Powell & Pressburger as this has shades of "Matter of Life and Death" (1946) to it. Rather than a fighter pilot though, it's quarter-back "Joe" (Beatty) who is erroneously selected to take the Concorde to heaven. He protests to supremo "Jordan" (James Mason) who discovers that his new charge is still supposed to have another fifty-odd years with his mortal coil. OK, let's just put him back. Ah, well no - he has already been cremated. That's just one jigsaw puzzle too much, even for the celestial. "Jordan" decides that he can borrow the body of someone next in the queue, and he settles on millionaire industrialist "Farnsworth". This man has more enemies that he'd care to count, not least his scheming wife (Dyan Cannon) and the pesky British campaigner "Betty" (Julie Christie) who is adamant that her local village isn't going to be demolished to make way for an oil refinery. Now safely ensconced his new body, he only has thoughts of going back to playing ball - only now he can afford to actually buy a team. Re-uniting with coach "Max" (Jack Warden) whom he manages to convince of his true identity, we now embark on a gentle comedy that extols the virtues of team building and environmentally aware business practice. Cannon steals this as the plotting spouse, but Mason doesn't really make much impact and otherwise it's all just a rather blandly predictable offering that has it's moments but just not enough of them. Watchable, though, on a wet afternoon if it's on the telly.
Nov 23, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Heaven Can Wait represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Comedy/Romance 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 Buck Henry 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 1978, 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 Heaven Can Wait took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2172 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 409 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Heaven Can Wait shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike El recomendado, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Heaven Can Wait subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Hustler and Sleuth explore similar territory, Heaven Can Wait 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 28, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $98,800,000
Where to Watch
