Cast
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Steve Martin
as Harris K. Telemacher
Victoria Tennant
as Sara McDowel
Richard E. Grant
as Roland Mackey
Marilu Henner
as Trudi
Sarah Jessica Parker
as SanDeE
Susan Forristal
as Ariel
Kevin Pollak
as Frank Swan
Sam McMurray
as Morris Frost
Patrick Stewart
as Mr. Perdue
Andrew Amador
as Bob, News Anchor
Gail Grate
as Gail
Eddie De Harp
as Maitre D' at Brunch
M.C. Shan
as Rap Waiter at L'Idiot
Frances Fisher
as June
Iman
as Cynthia
Crew
Director
- Mick Jackson
Producer
- Daniel Melnick
- Michael I. Rachmil
Reviews
Peter McGinn
Okay, this is a bit of fluff, really, cinematically speaking. Comparable to a madcap comedy in the old days of cinema, it is witty and funny. I wouldn’t call it great, just good enough so that when I saw a DVD copy at a thrift store, I picked it up. I wouldn’t have thought to buy it new.
Steve Martin wrote it, so you have weird little jokes like his character telling a blonde Bimbo girlfriend Sandy that her name is normal and not like a hippy name, and then she spells it S a n capital D, small e, capital E - well, you get the idea. Not Mensa level depth in humor, but harmless fun.
The ensemble cast work well together to provide laughs and an interest in what happens to everyone. I could have done without the bed hopping at the hotel somewhere near the middle of the film, but it is what it is. The movie makes for a pleasant watch. After the pandemic, when you feel safe to have friends over, this would be a good one, because you won’t need to sweat not talking over it. People won’t lose the plot. The small element of fantasy with the freeway traffic signs is cute, too. Enjoy.
Aug 24, 2020
JPV852
Quirky and off-kilter romantic-comedy that shines thanks to Steve Martin's unique delivery and some weird humor that involves an omnipresent freeway billboard. Seen this one a few times over the years and still holds up; just an easy-going movie. **3.75/5**
Nov 9, 2021
Thematic Analysis
L.A. Story represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Fantasy/Romance 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 Mick Jackson 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 1991, 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 L.A. Story took approximately 19 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 138 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 360 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While L.A. 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 All About Sex, which focuses more on action than character development, L.A. Story offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Hannah Montana: The Movie and Dirty Love explore similar territory, L.A. Story 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: February 8, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Revenue: $28,900,000
