Cast
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Max Records
as Max
Catherine Keener
as Mom
James Gandolfini
as Carol (voice)
Lauren Ambrose
as KW (voice)
Catherine O'Hara
as Judith (voice)
Forest Whitaker
as Ira (voice)
Chris Cooper
as Douglas (voice)
Paul Dano
as Alexander (voice)
Spike Jonze
as Bob (voice) / Terry (voice)
Pepita Emmerichs
as Claire
Mark Ruffalo
as The Boyfriend
Max Pfeifer
as Claire's Friend
Madeleine Greaves
as Claire's Friend
Joshua Jay
as Claire's Friend
Ryan Corr
as Claire's Friend
Crew
Director
- Spike Jonze
Producer
- Tom Hanks
- John B. Carls
- Gary Goetzman
- Vincent Landay
- Maurice Sendak
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Where the Wild Things Are 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 Spike Jonze 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 2009, 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 Where the Wild Things Are took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $100.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1137 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Where the Wild Things Are shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Night at the Museum, which focuses more on action than character development, Where the Wild Things Are offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Prince Bayaya and The Painted Fox explore similar territory, Where the Wild Things Are 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: October 16, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Budget: $100,000,000
- Revenue: $100,140,916
Where to Watch
