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The Riot Club

The Riot Club (2014)

Sep 19, 2014 1h 47m Drama

Two first-year students at Oxford University join a secret society and learn that their reputations can be made or destroyed over the course of one evening.

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Directed by Lone Scherfig

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lone Scherfig
Writer
  • Laura Wade
Producer
  • Peter Czernin
  • Graham Broadbent

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Riot Club examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Lone Scherfig 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 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Riot Club took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1188 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
  • The costume department created over 464 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2014, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Riot Club shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Wonderers, which focuses more on action than character development, The Riot Club offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Riders and Band Aid explore similar territory, The Riot Club 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: September 19, 2014
  • Runtime: 1h 47m
  • Revenue: $2,100,000

Where to Watch

Paramount+ with Showtime
AMC Plus Apple TV Channel
Paramount+ Amazon Channel
AMC+ Amazon Channel
AMC+ Roku Premium Channel
AMC+
Philo
IFC Films Unlimited Apple TV Channel

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