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Family Pictures

Family Pictures (1993)

Mar 20, 1993 3h 3m Drama TV Movie

Nina Eberlin comes home to visit her now-divorced parents and while looking through a collection of pictures taken by her father and herself, she reflects on how the pictures illustrate the nature of families. She begins to tell the story of how her parents discovered their son Randall was autistic and how each reacted to that. Her mother had three more kids, all daughters, "the perfect children." The controversy over that and Randall's treatment pulls the parents apart. It also forces Nina and her older brother Mack to re-evaluate their relationship with each other and each parent.

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Directed by Philip Saville

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Philip Saville
Writer
  • Jennifer Miller

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Family Pictures 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 Philip Saville 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 1993, 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 Family Pictures took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 183 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 228 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 1129 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1993, when this film was released:
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: March 20, 1993
  • Runtime: 3h 3m

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