Cast
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Crew
Director
- Laine Drewery
Writer
- Laine Drewery
Producer
- Eleisha McNeill
- Rita Kotzia
- Laine Drewery
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Underground Railroad: The William Still Story represents a fascinating example of Documentary/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Laine Drewery 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 2012, 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 Underground Railroad: The William Still Story took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 60 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 341 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 927 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Underground Railroad: The William Still Story shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Brief History of Time, which focuses more on action than character development, Underground Railroad: The William Still Story offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Red Army and The Rise & Fall of Penn Station explore similar territory, Underground Railroad: The William Still Story 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: January 31, 2012
- Runtime: 1h
Where to Watch
