Backdrop preview The Best Man backdrop
The Best Man

The Best Man (2006)

Mar 19, 2006 2h Drama Romance Thriller

After painter Michael 'Mike' Sheldrake's failed suicide attempt, house-mate and life-long best friend Peter Tremaine, an antiques shop owner, reminisces their common past, like Mike does in therapy. It started at the beach, when scrubby, scared Mikey became the dependent protégé of forceful Pete, both doted by Pete's dad, a wealthy lawyer. Afterwards Mike moves out to marry Kate. Pete accepts to be best man, but overdoes that, 'arranging' to get stuck in the honeymoon hotel he paid for. Drama from their boarding school childhood intertwines with tragedy for the mates, Kate and vindictive former police detective Miller.

Directed by Alex Pillai

Cast

View All
Richard Coyle
View Profile
Richard Coyle

as Michael Sheldrake

Keeley Hawes
View Profile
Keeley Hawes

as Kate Sheldrake

Toby Stephens
View Profile
Toby Stephens

as Peter Tremaine

Aaron Taylor-Johnson
View Profile
Aaron Taylor-Johnson

as Michael Sheldrake (age 15)

George Irving
View Profile
George Irving

as Miller

Laura Aikman
View Profile
Laura Aikman

as Alison Poley

Indra Ové
View Profile
Indra Ové

as Natalie

View Profile
Jack Baverstock

as Bruce Miller

Kate Fahy
View Profile
Kate Fahy

as Dr. Cowley

View Profile
Joseph Friend

as Michael - as a boy

Crew

Director
  • Alex Pillai
Writer
  • Russell Lewis
Producer
  • Hugh Warren

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Best Man 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 Alex Pillai 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 2006, 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 The Best Man took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 1484 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2006, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: March 19, 2006
  • Runtime: 2h

Similar Movies