Cast
View AllBenjean
as Benji a.k.a Browning (as Benjean)
Chevy Chase
as Browning
Jane Seymour
as Jackie
Omar Sharif
as Bart
Robert Morley
as Bernie
Lorenzo Music
as Heavenly Public Address (Voice)
Stuart Germain
as Higgins / Deaf Postie
Alan Sues
as Freddie
John Stride
as Alistair Becket
Donnelly Rhodes
as Montanero
Barbara Leigh-Hunt
as Margaret
Margaret Courtenay
as Lady Chalmers
Richard Vernon
as Quimby Charles
Tony Angelo
as Floor Supervisor
Derek Cracknell
as ady Hermione's Driver
Crew
Director
- Joe Camp
Writer
- Rod Browning
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Oh! Heavenly Dog represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Thriller/Crime/Mystery/Fantasy 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 Joe Camp 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 Oh! Heavenly Dog took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 34 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 2172 individual shots.
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 Oh! Heavenly Dog shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Show Dogs, which focuses more on action than character development, Oh! Heavenly Dog offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Amores Perros and Memento explore similar territory, Oh! Heavenly Dog stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: July 11, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 43m
