Cast
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Crew
Director
- D. Ross Lederman
Writer
- Fred Niblo Jr.
Reviews
Frank F
A basic film about a self-important father with unrealistic expectations for his 8-year old son. At the end, the father lightens up, the son grows up and the parents grow understand each other better.
There are a few unexpected topics that were touched upon worthy of note: friendship with the black son of a garbage man; playing with guns; and the patriarchy.
Mar 25, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Father's Son 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 D. Ross Lederman 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 1941, 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 Father's Son took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 57 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 95 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 178 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1444 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1941, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Father's Son shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Running Scared, which focuses more on action than character development, Father's Son offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Alpha Dog and Vantage Point explore similar territory, Father's Son 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: February 12, 1941
- Runtime: 57m
