Cast
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Robert Culp
as Harry Freeman
Elayne Heilveil
as Ingrid Brunner
Ken Swofford
as Paul Church
Julius Harris
as George Rigney
Chuck McCann
as Buddy Marino
Michael Lerner
as Phillip Conover
Bruce Boxleitner
as Richie Danko
Lee de Broux
as Sgt. Lou Shirley
Granville Van Dusen
as Brother Stephen Tyler
Ken Sylk
as Hank Buchek
Joe George
as Eddie Frisch
Jean Allison
as Irene Schullman
Don Mantooth
as Arthur Schullman
Rudolph Willrich
as Quinn Shaw
Lieux Dressler
as Mae Dowd
Crew
Director
- Daryl Duke
Writer
- Peter S. Fischer
Producer
- Howie Horwitz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Cry for Help 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 Daryl Duke 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 1975, 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 A Cry for Help took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2381 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1975, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Cry for Help shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Rules of Attraction, which focuses more on action than character development, A Cry for Help offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Nowhere and The Hours explore similar territory, A Cry for Help stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 12, 1975
- Runtime: 1h 13m
