Cast
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Marc Singer
as Tom Sullivan
R.H. Thomson
as Will Sly
Sarah Torgov
as Patti Steffen
Shari Belafonte
as Heather Johnson
Douglas Campbell
as Porky Sullivan
Helen Burns
as Mrs. Buxton
Harvey Atkin
as Bert
Barbara Gordon
as Molly
Sharon Lewis
as Helga
Lynda Mason Green
as Sharon
Tony Van Bridge
as Dr. Roger Wells
Jack Creley
as Dean Franklin
David Gardner
as Jack Steffen
Gary Reineke
as Phil Lucas
Bob Warner
as Sergeant
Crew
Director
- Eric Till
Producer
- Eric Till
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, If You Could See What I Hear examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Eric Till 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 1982, 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 If You Could See What I Hear took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While If You Could See What I Hear shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 2gether: The Movie, which focuses more on action than character development, If You Could See What I Hear offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Little Siberia and King of the Ants explore similar territory, If You Could See What I Hear 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 7, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 43m
