Cast
View AllKieran Mulroney
as Jasper James
Juliet Landau
as Rachel
Mason Adams
as Francis
Bette Ford
as Betty
Daryl Haney
as Troy
Wings Hauser
as Vince
Bruce Kronenberg
as Butch
Lionel Mark Smith
as Detective Bob
Billy Maddox
as Detective Jim
Anthony Welch
as Detective Charlie
Jim Turner
as Detective Greg
Jill Tracy
as Blonde Whore
Deborah Stambler
as Brunette Whore
Ali Wentworth
as Suicidal Singer
Barbara Pilavin
as Foreign Woman
Crew
Director
- Harry Bromley Davenport
Writer
- Daryl Haney
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Life Among the Cannibals 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 Harry Bromley Davenport 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 1999, 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 Life Among the Cannibals took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Life Among the Cannibals shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Balearic Caper, which focuses more on action than character development, Life Among the Cannibals offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kontroll and Vampire's Kiss explore similar territory, Life Among the Cannibals 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: March 3, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 35m