Cast
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Peter Falk
as Max
Tammy Blanchard
as Sally Reid
Katey Sagal
as Jo
Alexander Conti
as Jimmy Reid
Mark Akeson
as Security Guard
Dylan Aucoin
as School kid
Danny Blanco Hall
as Fireman
Wyatt Bowen
as Charlie
Babs Chula
as Lois Vernon
Rosey Edeh
as Reporter
Kathleen Fee
as Marion
Seann Gallagher
as Karl Hoffman
Aaron Grunfeld
as Young Franz
Mark Antony Krupa
as Uncle Gregory
Marina Lapina
as Frieda Einstoss
Crew
Director
- Andy Wolk
Writer
- Michael J. Murray
Producer
- Irene Litinsky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, When Angels Come to Town 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 Andy Wolk 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 2004, 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 When Angels Come to Town took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- 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 When Angels Come to Town shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Love Actually, which focuses more on action than character development, When Angels Come to Town offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Edward Scissorhands and About a Boy explore similar territory, When Angels Come to Town 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: November 28, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 23m
