Cast
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Cybill Shepherd
as Martha Stewart
Gale Harold
as Peter Bacanovic
Sabine Singh
as Lexi Stewart
Jonathan Higgins
as John Cuti
A.C. Peterson
as John Morvillo (as Alan C. Peterson)
David Alpay
as Douglas Faneuil
Julie Khaner
as Mariana Pasternak
Lori Hallier
as Susan Lyne
Jackie Burroughs
as Big Martha
Alec McClure
as Kevin Sharkey
Deborah Tennant
as Ann Armstrong
Robert Verlaque
as Sam Waksal
Kyra Harper
as Doris
Karen LeBlanc
as Joanne
Karen Robinson
as Jackie
Crew
Director
- Eric Bross
Writer
- Charles F. Bohl
Producer
- Frank Siracusa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Martha Behind Bars 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 Eric Bross 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 2005, 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 Martha Behind Bars took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 111 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2005, 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 Martha Behind Bars shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Brendan Smyth: Betrayal of Trust, which focuses more on action than character development, Martha Behind Bars subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Les Misérables and Hunt for the Labyrinth Killer explore similar territory, Martha Behind Bars 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: September 25, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 39m
