Cast
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Lillian Gish
as Hillie Radcliffe
Candy Clark
as Nancy Rollins
O. J. Simpson
as Tucker
Robert Walker Jr.
as The Wanderer
Jack Carter
as Lester Burns
Alan Hale Jr.
as McVickers
Anne Lockhart
as Roberta Radcliffe
Timothy Bottoms
as Michael Radcliffe
Sidney Greenbush
as Amy McVickers
William Jordan
as Bert Rollins
Paul Koslo
as Jere
Arnie Moore
as Dognapper
Nancy Morgan
as Ellen
Robert Feero
as Skip
Alan Abelew
as Manny
Crew
Director
- Roy Watts
Writer
- Michael S. Murphey
- Sandra K. Bailey
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Hambone and Hillie examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Roy Watts 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 1983, 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 Hambone and Hillie took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: April 24, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 29m