Cast
View AllCaroline Blakiston
as Anna Brigmore
Mary Healey
as Mary Peel
Pippa Guard
as Barbara Farrington
June Ritchie
as Constance Radlet
Juliet Stevenson
as Barbara Mallen
Gerry Sundquist
as Michael Radlet
Neil Dickson
as John Bensham
Victoria Williams
as Kate Bensham
John Hallam
as Thomas Mallen
Anne Reid
as Mathilda Bensham
Polly Hemingway
as Aggie Moorhead
Michael Elwyn
as Patrick Ferrier
Gillian Lewis
as Jane Radlet
Matthew Long
as Harry Bensham
Jonathan Duttine
as Donald Radlet
Crew
Director
- Richard Martin
- Mary McMurray
- Brian Mills
- Ronald Wilson
Writer
- Jack Russell
Producer
- Roy Roberts
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Mallens 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 Richard Martin 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 1979, 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 The Mallens took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 720 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 775 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1394 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- 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
Details
- Release Date: June 10, 1979
- Runtime: 12h