Cast
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Robin Williams
as Dale Putley
Billy Crystal
as Jack Lawrence
Julia Louis-Dreyfus
as Carrie Lawrence
Nastassja Kinski
as Collette Andrews
Charlie Hofheimer
as Scott Andrews
Bruce Greenwood
as Bob Andrews
Dennis Burkley
as Calvin the Trucker
Haylie Johnson
as Nikki Trainor
Charles Rocket
as Russ Trainor
Patti D'Arbanville
as Shirley Trainor
Jared Harris
as Lee
Louis Lombardi
as Matt
Mark McGrath
as Sugar Ray Band
Jason Reitman
as Wrong Kid in Alley
Catherine Reitman
as Victoria
Crew
Director
- Ivan Reitman
Producer
- Joel Silver
- Ivan Reitman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Fathers' Day represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family 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 Ivan Reitman 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 Fathers' Day took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $85.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 52 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fathers' Day shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike In the Army Now, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Fathers' Day subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like I Vitelloni and The Big Chill explore similar territory, Fathers' Day stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 9, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $85,000,000
- Revenue: $36,000,000
