Cast
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Crew
Director
- Charles R. Bowers
- Harold L. Muller
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Comedy/Animation/Mystery film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. There It Is presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Charles R. Bowers 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 1928, 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 There It Is took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 19 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 56 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 183 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1928, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While There It Is shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Beverly Hills Cop II, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, There It Is subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Blue Velvet and Se7en explore similar territory, There It Is stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: January 1, 1928
- Runtime: 19m
