Cast
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Armand Assante
as Belizaire Breaux
Gail Youngs
as Alida Thibodaux
Michael Schoeffling
as Hypolite Leger
Stephen McHattie
as James Willoughby
Will Patton
as Matthew Perry
Nancy Barrett
as Rebecca
Robert Duvall
as The Preacher
Loulan Pitre
as Sheriff
Andre Delaunay
as Dolsin
Jim Levert
as Amadee Meaux
Paul Landry
as Sosthene
Ernest Vincent
as Old Perry
Allan L. Durand
as Priest
Bob Edmundson
as Head Vigilante
Charlie Goulas
as Vigilante
Crew
Director
- Glen Pitre
Writer
- Glen Pitre
Producer
- Allan L. Durand
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Belizaire the Cajun 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 Glen Pitre 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 1986, 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 Belizaire the Cajun took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1986, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Belizaire the Cajun shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike „Arabesky“, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Belizaire the Cajun subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Madame Bovary and Pleasantville explore similar territory, Belizaire the Cajun 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: June 13, 1986
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Revenue: $1,142,243
