Cast
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Katie L. Hall
as Leah Collins
Liz Lytle
as Charlie Tillerman
Susan May Pratt
as Kristi Lerner
Courtney Abbott
as Lauren Chambers
Joshua Ryan
as Trevor Wilson (as Josh McVaney)
Sadie Alexandru
as Natalie Cloonan
Rob Roy Fitzgerald
as Rusty Carter
Alan Cox
as Cory Beck
Gloria Coco
as Naturist Priest
Mike Dolan
as Dusty Cloonan
Chas Springer
as Chas
Kat Namey
as Beach Video Naturist
Bobby Kilborn
as Groundskeeper
Becki Kilborn
as Hula Hooping Girl
David Cheek
as Old Man Butt / Kristi's Dad
Crew
Director
- J.P. Riley
Producer
- Christine Sheaks
- J.P. Riley
- Katie L. Hall
- Dustin Pearlman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Act Naturally 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 J.P. Riley 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 2011, 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 Act Naturally took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 445 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Act Naturally shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ladies in Lavender, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Act Naturally offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rabbit-Proof Fence and Coming to America explore similar territory, Act Naturally 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: March 22, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 32m
