Cast
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Emma Roberts
as Nancy Drew
Max Thieriot
as Ned Nickerson
Josh Flitter
as Corky Veinshtein
Rachael Leigh Cook
as Jane Brighton
Kay Panabaker
as Georgie
Tate Donovan
as Carson Drew
Marshall Bell
as John Leshing
Daniella Monet
as Inga Veinshtein
Kelly Vitz
as Trish
Bruce Willis
as Bruce (uncredited)
Laura Harring
as Dehlia Draycott
Barry Bostwick
as Dashiel Biedermeyer
Craig Gellis
as Thug
Rich Cooper
as Charlie
Amy Bruckner
as Bess
Crew
Director
- Andrew Fleming
Producer
- Jerry Weintraub
Reviews
Kamurai
Really good watch, would watch again, and can recommend.
While I don't enjoy the aspect of shoving an addiction (actually compulsion) story into a Nancy Drew story (as she has to stop sleuthing), and I don't enjoy the relocation aspect of a world they built so well so quickly, this movie has far more benefits than drawbacks.
Once we get past the awkward "lying to your parents" aspect of the story that usually gets attributed to drugs and alcohol, the actual "sleuthing" is really fun and present in a charming and light-hearted way.
The mystery itself is actually complex enough to keep you interested throughout the movie, and the characters are fun, if eccentric. Having a "world's clash" aspect to the story seemed unnecessary, and that's the only real hang up this movie had.
Firstly the movie was supposed to be the opening of a potential franchise to revitalize the Nancy Drew brand, but instead of giving it a strong opening movie, they jumped right in as if there were already 3 movies and they had already jumped the shark a second time. I had several young people ask me if "Nancy Drew was a thing?". Because it was mistreated in the writing process, what should have been a great movie is only a good movie.
I really liked this though: Emma Roberts showed early that she was up to carrying a movie, and I love that Rachel Leigh Cook ("She's All that") got involved as she was from a different novel based franchise ("The Babysitter's Club") that also didn't take off.
Aug 13, 2020
Thematic Analysis
Nancy Drew represents a fascinating example of Family/Adventure/Crime/Mystery/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 Andrew Fleming 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 2007, 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 Nancy Drew took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 329 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Nancy Drew shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cut Off, which focuses more on action than character development, Nancy Drew offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Hazel's People and The Policeman's Lineage explore similar territory, Nancy Drew 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: June 15, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $30,715,465
