Cast
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Halle Berry
as Shelby Coles
Eric Thal
as Meade Howell
Lynn Whitfield
as Corinne Coles
Carl Lumbly
as Lute McNeil
Marianne Jean-Baptiste
as Ellen Coles
Cynda Williams
as Liz Odis
Peter Francis James
as Isaac Coles
Michael Warren
as Clark Coles
Shirley Knight
as Gram (Miss Caroline)
Ronn Carroll
as Dr. Havermeyer
Richard Brooks
as Lincoln Odis
Gabriel Casseus
as Hannibal
Ethel Ayler
as Eunice
Margo Moorer
as Emmaline
Margaret Welsh
as Josephine
Crew
Director
- Charles Burnett
Writer
- Lisa Jones
Producer
- Doro Bachrach
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Wedding 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 Charles Burnett 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 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Wedding took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 161 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 206 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 823 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Wedding shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Den, kdy unesli papeže, which focuses more on action than character development, The Wedding subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Look Who's Talking Too and Fallen explore similar territory, The Wedding stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 22, 1998
- Runtime: 2h 41m
