Cast
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Yul Brynner
as Jason Compson
Joanne Woodward
as Quentin Compson / Narrator
Margaret Leighton
as Caddy Compson
Stuart Whitman
as Charlie Busch
Ethel Waters
as Dilsey
Jack Warden
as Ben Compson
Albert Dekker
as Earl Snopes
John Beal
as Howard Compson
Françoise Rosay
as Caroline Compson
Steven Perry
as Luster
Bill Gunn
as T.P.
Roy Glenn
as Job
Esther Dale
as Mrs. Maud Mansfield
Emerson Treacy
as Selby
Jean Carson
as Mary Ellen
Crew
Director
- Martin Ritt
Producer
- Jerry Wald
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Well the principal casting here is quite bizarre. It's really Yul Brynner who struggles to convince as the Russian-born, adopted, head of the "Compson" family - a supposed southern states gentleman having to come to terms with the fairly profound changes in the local hierarchy and in their own personal, dwindling, fortunes. Despite the fact that most of the rest of this family have long given up and taken to the bottle or just cannot cope with the realities, he is still determined to restore things to a semblance of their former glory. To that end he shares a vision with his niece "Quentin" (Joanne Woodward). She was abandoned by her mother - his flighty sister "Caddy" (Margaret Leighton) - at birth and so has developed an embittered but determined independent steak - and that comes with flaws and numerous errors of judgement! "Compson" is resolved to keep her from both predators and from herself - and a clash of personalities is soon looming! The story here is really quite derivative and the characterisations lightweight, delivering a story that has all the ingredients of a smouldering tale of the American south, but rather forgets to light the fire. Leighton delivers quite strongly here, I thought, as does an on-form Woodward - but in isolation they can't really rescue this from it's over-scripted doldrums. Great title but it disappoints, sorry.
Jan 4, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Sound and the Fury 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 Martin Ritt 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 1959, 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 The Sound and the Fury took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1959, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Sound and the Fury shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Prince of Tides, which focuses more on action than character development, The Sound and the Fury offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like MisQues and Catopolis explore similar territory, The Sound and the Fury stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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 27, 1959
- Runtime: 1h 50m
