Backdrop preview Victoria Day backdrop
Victoria Day

Victoria Day (2009)

Jan 17, 2009 1h 28m Drama

Over the course of one week in 1988, the search for a missing teammate, parental expectations, a burgeoning sexual awakening and the rock concert of the century all threaten to jolt a 16-year-old into adulthood. With the long Victoria Day weekend signaling the end of school, and the Stanley Cup playoffs afoot, the summer of 1988 arrives in Toronto. Ben Spector, a smart, sensitive kid from a Russian immigrant family, hits the Bob Dylan show with his buddies and runs into Jordan Chapman, the class jerk and Ben's tormentor on the ice-hockey rink. Jordan is five dollars shy of scoring some drugs, and Ben begrudgingly spots him the dough. But the next day, Jordan fails to show up at school or hockey practice. With days passing and Jordan's whereabouts a mystery, Ben finds himself in an uncomfortable predicament, especially when a romance with Jordan's sister tentatively blooms in the midst of the ordeal.

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Directed by David Bezmozgis

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Crew

Director
  • David Bezmozgis

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Victoria Day 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 David Bezmozgis 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 Victoria Day took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 30 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2009, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Victoria Day shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Meet Joe Black, which focuses more on action than character development, Victoria Day offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Insomnia and Bollywood/Hollywood explore similar territory, Victoria Day 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: January 17, 2009
  • Runtime: 1h 28m
  • Budget: $1

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