Cast
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Ashley Judd
as Helen
Goran Višnjić
as David
Lauren Lee Smith
as Mathilda
Alexia Fast
as Julie
Alberta Watson
as Dr. Sherman
Leah Cairns
as Susanna
David Hewlett
as Frank
David Nykl
as John
Chelah Horsdal
as Kara
Ali Liebert
as Donna
Conrad Coates
as Stephen
Alex Stevens
as Woman
Rob Heschl
as Maire'd
Robin Nielsen
as Stranger
Adrian Hough
as ER Doctor
Crew
Director
- Sandra Nettelbeck
Writer
- Sandra Nettelbeck
Producer
- Jens Meurer
- Christine Haebler
- Judy Tossell
Reviews
BornKnight
This movie was mostly a tough watch because it is something I lived with - the great and only part that deserves a view and that give to it a 3 stars is the performance of Ashley Judd and actress than than Jean and Marilyn series, didn't shine of so many movies.
Her role is just pure anguish to someone that had similar diagnoses to the ones that her character pass on the movie (Major Depression with psychotic symptoms and a light bipolar disturb). Probably her best role in any work she had done, that shows easily the anguish, sometimes semeling without cause and the masks we have to use dya thought day to be in a "normal" life.
Also it have and explanation as Judd (and multi-activist) herself had major depression thought her life that isn't something that you can "cure" overnight, you just learn to cope with it. She lived a troubled life thought her youth and entered major rehabilitation in 2006 - and now with the suicide of her mother in 2022 (yes, in many cases it is something that runs through the family).
The major flaws probably are by Sandra Nettelbeck, the german writer and director - herself a depression survivor - mostly know by "Mostly Martha" (2001) and somelighter movies. The story could be a lot better written and the choice of Goran Visnjic (lately seen in some series and in Hellraiser remake) as a lovely husband that tries to cope with the situation isn't the best, and the choice of support that only someone that passed thought that can understand what it is is a partial true - because lot's of people can understand that by empathy even didn't really lived depression.
As a whole it is something that I can only recommend to someone that wants to see what is to live with major depression (even if we don't "read" what is going inside the protagonist head) - painful to see as real as it can be.
I imagine this TV movie (it seems to be because of some black screen change in some sequences) in the hands of a most skilled writer and director what t could be with Ashely and her acting. If taken most seriously it could be a contender for best actress. Overall for her work a 6,0 out of 10,0 / C+.
Nov 8, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Helen 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 Sandra Nettelbeck 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 Helen took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 169 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1764 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- 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 Helen shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sharp Stick, which focuses more on action than character development, Helen subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Enormity of Life and Breaking explore similar territory, Helen stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: November 26, 2009
- Runtime: 2h
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $34,820
