Cast
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Diane Kruger
as Sarah Lincoln
Jason Clarke
as Tom Lincoln
Brit Marling
as Nancy Lincoln
Wes Bentley
as Mr. Crawford
Braydon Denney
as Abraham Lincoln
Cameron Mitchell Williams
as Dennis
McKenzie Blankenship
as Sally
Ryan McFall
as Johnny
Madison Stiltner
as Matilda
Bruce Bayard
as Oncle Samuel
Veanne Cox
as Tante Elizabeth
Robert Vincent Smith
as Révérend Elkins
Adam Tetters
as Ben
Ida Joy
as Jeune élève
Riley Brutvan
as William
Crew
Director
- A.J. Edwards
Writer
- A.J. Edwards
Producer
- Jake DeVito
- Nicolas Gonda
- Terrence Malick
- Charley Beil
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Better Angels 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 A.J. Edwards 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 2014, 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 Better Angels took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1787 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Better Angels shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Moulin Rouge!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Better Angels offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Finding Neverland explore similar territory, The Better Angels 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: January 18, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Revenue: $70,918
