Cast
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Diane Lane
as Narrator (voice)
Chris Basinger
as Self
Jeanine Basinger
as Self
Cari Beauchamp
as Self
Leatrice Joy Gilbert
as Self
A.C. Lyles
as Self
Bob Mitchell
as Self
Barry Paris
as Self
Maria Riva
as Self
Michael Schlesinger
as Self
Budd Schulberg
as Self
Kevin Thomas
as Self
Mark Viera
as Self
Marc Wanamaker
as Self
William Wellman Jr.
as Self
Crew
Director
- Elaina Archer
Writer
- Scott Eyman
- Elaina Archer
Producer
- Elaina Archer
- Todd Friedrichsen
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Elaina Archer 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 Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 96 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike You Can’t Watch This, which focuses more on action than character development, Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Princess Diana: The Mourning After and His Name Was Jason: 30 Years of Friday the 13th explore similar territory, Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema 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: May 23, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 10m
