Cast
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Kim Darby
as Melodye Amerson
William Shatner
as Dr. Curtis
Diane Varsi
as Valancy Carmody
Dan O'Herlihy
as Sol Diemus
Laurie Walters
as Karen Diemus
Johanna Baer
as Bethie
Chris Valentine
as Clement Rancher
Chris Valentine
as Clement Francher
Stephanie Valentine
as Talitha
Jack Dahlgren
as Kiah
Andrew Crichton
as Thann
David Petch
as Matt
Dorothy Drady
as Dita
Mary Rose McMaster
as Marras
Anne Walters
as Obla
Crew
Director
- John Korty
Writer
- James M. Miller
Producer
- Gerald I. Isenberg
Reviews
Wuchak
**_Little House on the Prairie with paranormal bits_**
A young woman (Kim Darby) takes an assignment as a teacher of a small community in the desolate rolling hills somewhere in the Southwest. She becomes increasingly aware of the peculiarities of the people, such as the kids dragging their feet and a hush-hush attitude. William Shatner is on hand as the doctor, also an outsider.
“The People” (1972) is based on Zenna Henderson's 'People' stories, which were first published in 1961 (specifically, the story "Pottage" from "Pilgrimage: The Book of the People"). It was produced as a potential pilot for a TV series that never materialized. Yet it works as a standalone rural drama that’s slow-paced and mild, but with an interesting concept and the corresponding strange phenomena, which I don’t want to give away.
Let’s just say that I wouldn’t be surprised if Stephen King was inspired by Henderson’s stories to write “Carrie.” Not that this is a horror flick, not at all, although it includes weird, outlandish elements. I just suspect that King maybe took ideas from Zenna’s “The People” to create his more famous horror story.
It has the tone of Star Trek’s first season episode “This Side of Paradise” mixed with the soon-to-come Little House series. Darby was 24 during shooting and surprisingly thin, although winsome. She previously worked with Shatner in the Star Trek episode “Miri” when she was 18.
The soothing score was composed by Carmine Coppola, Francis Ford Coppola's father. In fact, this little unassuming flick was produced by Francis’ American Zoetrope.
It’s short ‘n’ sweet at 1 hour, 13 minutes, and was shot in Nicasio, which is a 40-minute drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge (the schoolhouse); and San Rafael, which is about 12-15 miles southeast of there.
GRADE: B-/C+
Aug 18, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The People 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 John Korty 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 1972, 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 People took approximately 26 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 97 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1774 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- 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 People shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike In the Name of the Father, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The People offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Head Under Water and The Reader explore similar territory, The People 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: January 22, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 14m
Where to Watch
