Cast
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Donald Sinden
as Peter Weston
Diana Dors
as Vanessa Colebrook
Jeannie Carson
as Moira O'Shannon
James Robertson Justice
as Sir James Colebrook
Roland Culver
as Colonel Geoffrey Weston
Stanley Holloway
as The General
Avice Landone
as Mrs. Weston
Richard Wattis
as Hoskins
Stephen Boyd
as Albert O'Shannon
Margaret Rutherford
as Prudence Croquet
Frankie Howerd
as M.C. at Alligator Rally (uncredited)
Henry Kendall
as Valet
Michael Shepley
as The Judge
Wilfrid Lawson
as Irishman (uncredited)
Ernest Thesiger
as Notcher (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- J. Lee Thompson
Writer
- Jack Davies
Producer
- Raymond Stross
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
An Alligator Named Daisy represents a fascinating example of Comedy/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 J. Lee Thompson 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 1955, 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 An Alligator Named Daisy took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 50 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 157 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1955, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While An Alligator Named Daisy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Forrest Gump, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, An Alligator Named Daisy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday and The Piano Teacher explore similar territory, An Alligator Named Daisy stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 13, 1955
- Runtime: 1h 25m
