Cast
View AllJean-Marie Lemieux
as Narrator (voice)
Paul Dupont-Hébert
as Self (manager)
Denis Farmer
as Self (percussion)
Monique Fauteux
as Self (vocals, keyboard)
Serge Fiori
as Self (vocals, guitar)
Jeffrey Fisher
as Self (keyboard)
René Lévesque
as Self
Libert Subirana
as Self (winds, vocals)
Louis Valois
as Self (bass, vocals)
Robert Stanley
as Self (guitar)
Crew
Director
- Robert Fortier
Writer
- David Wilson
Producer
- Marrin Canell
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Harmonium in California represents a fascinating example of Documentary/Music 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 Robert Fortier 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 1980, 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 Harmonium in California took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 29 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 74 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 39 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Harmonium in California shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike To Hear Your Banjo Play, which focuses more on action than character development, Harmonium in California subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Nanook of the North and Ten thirty explore similar territory, Harmonium in California 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: January 1, 1980
- Runtime: 29m
