Cast
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Ed Asner
as Charlie Atwater
Gregory Sporleder
as Johnny DelFino
Austin Pendleton
as Eugene Cleft
Mark Curry
as Fly Walker
Barry Corbin
as Robert Blister
Mickey Jones
as Rex Tweedy
Ann Walker
as Doreen
O-Lan Jones
as Helga
Matthew Mahaney
as Junior (as Matthew Michael Mahaney)
Mitchell Whitfield
as Benny Pinser
Christopher Darga
as Stu
Don McMillan
as Jerry
Patrick Richwood
as Chauncey
Rhonda Shear
as Jill Digmie
Victor Raider-Wexler
as Executive
Crew
Director
- Marc Lasky
Producer
- Marc Lasky
- Lynda Murray
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Fumbleheads represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Marc Lasky 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1997, 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 The Fumbleheads 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 126 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 65 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Fumbleheads shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Happy Gilmore, which focuses more on action than character development, The Fumbleheads subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like She's the Man and DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story explore similar territory, The Fumbleheads 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 1, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 35m
