Cast
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Meryl Streep
as Ricki Rendazzo
Kevin Kline
as Pete Brummel
Mamie Gummer
as Julie Brummel
Sebastian Stan
as Joshua Brummel
Audra McDonald
as Maureen Brummel
Ben Platt
as Daniel
Rick Springfield
as Greg
Charlotte Rae
as Oma
Nick Westrate
as Adam Brummel
Cherise Boothe
as Community Security Guard
Rick Rosas
as Buster
Joe Vitale
as Joe
Bernie Worrell
as Billy
Peter C. Demme
as Walt
Jim Roche
as Provocative Dancer
Crew
Director
- Jonathan Demme
Writer
- Diablo Cody
Producer
- Marc Platt
- Mason Novick
- Diablo Cody
- Gary Goetzman
Reviews
Reno
> Facing what you had left behind to chase your dream.
This is so underrated. I mean it is not a great film, but surely does not deserve bashing. One of the rarest appearance on the screen for Meryl Streep. Totally transformed into a rock star and coming together with her real life daughter was another highlight. Impressive performances by others too. The Music was good with a combination of bit emotions and comedy.
It was the story of an aging rock star who failed to reach the heights. She once gave up on her family over the passion of music and now she returns after receiving a call that her daughter is in a trouble. So the tale focus on her struggling life, as well as because of her past she won't get a warm welcome. It's time to fix everything and as the years pass what changes brings is the remaining narration.
This is life. People are motivated to chase their dreams no matter whatever stands between them. This was a similar theme where a woman goes after what she wanted to be, but her family comes in between. And you know the success is not for everyone, so in that situation, how a person reacts to all the miscalculations in her life is what this film is about. It was actually a well told story, but the critics did not like it and given some lame excuses. To me it was a decent film, definitely not the worst, so all I'm saying is you should try it if you like music.
7/10
Jul 4, 2016
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Ricki and the Flash 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 Jonathan Demme 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 2015, 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 Ricki and the Flash took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $18.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 34 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ricki and the Flash shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Manhattan, which focuses more on action than character development, Ricki and the Flash offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Our Hospitality and A Streetcar Named Desire explore similar territory, Ricki and the Flash 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: July 10, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Budget: $18,000,000
- Revenue: $41,325,328
