Cast
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Carmen Berkeley
as Julisa
Reilly Walters
as Ryan
Michelle Macedo
as Sierra
Ashley Romans
as Kesang
Mershad Torabi
as Mohammed
Janae Palmer
as Filly from New York
Al Sotto
as Restaurant Server
Steven C. Fisher
as Middle Seat Passenger
Geri Courtney-Austein
as Kristen
Barney Fitzpatrick
as Chef Concierge
Emmanuel Taye
as Homeless Man
Cassie Anderson
as Front Desk Clerk
Frank Hobbs
as Ryan's Friend (voice)
Crew
Director
- Carter Ward
Writer
- Carter Ward
Producer
- Carter Ward
- Kathryn Crabtree
- Jane Hollon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Step Back, Doors Closing 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 Carter Ward 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 2024, 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 Step Back, Doors Closing took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 59 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2024, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Step Back, Doors Closing shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike For Both of Us, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Step Back, Doors Closing subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Unmoored and The Proposal explore similar territory, Step Back, Doors Closing 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 27, 2024
- Runtime: 1h 38m
