Cast
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Pat Hingle
as Dr. Sam Abelman
Lynn Carlin
as Sarah Abelman
Paul Jabara
as Myron Malcolm
Tracy Bogart
as Eunice Abelman
Sorrell Booke
as Dr. Max Vogel
Penny Santon
as Mrs. Parelli
Titos Vandis
as Mr. Parelli
Pepe Serna
as Charlie Parelli
Michael Margotta
as Frankie Parelli
Andrew Duggan
as Dr. McCabe
John Hillerman
as Tree Inspector
Bob Goldstein
as The Vendor
Ann Doran
as Nurse Whitbread
Del Russel
as Vinnie Parelli
Paul Henry Itkin
as Paul Parelli
Crew
Director
- Jerrold Freedman
Producer
- Jerrold Freedman
- Ernest A. Losso
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Last Angry Man 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 Jerrold Freedman 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 1974, 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 Last Angry Man took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1195 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1974, 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
While The Last Angry Man shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike American Madness, which focuses more on action than character development, The Last Angry Man subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Afterwards and Beyond Rangoon explore similar territory, The Last Angry Man 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: April 16, 1974
- Runtime: 1h 14m
