Cast
View All
Tatiana Maslany
as Mathilda "Tilly" Bassett
Kristopher Turner
as Gideon "Gad" Hopkins
Vivien Endicott Douglas
as Prudence Bassett
Gage Munroe
as Solomon Bassett
Helene Joy
as Mary Bassett
Jacqueline Bisset
as Isabella Caldwell
Ted Atherton
as Mr. Hopkins
Paula Boudreau
as Mrs. Hopkins
Sam Malkin
as Abner Yule
Crew
Director
- Graeme Campbell
Writer
- Shelley Evans
- Louisa May Alcott
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving 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 Graeme Campbell 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 2008, 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 An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2389 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Looking for Venera, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Trespass Against Us and King of the Gypsies explore similar territory, An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving 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: November 22, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 30m
Where to Watch
