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Digging for Fire

Digging for Fire (2015)

Aug 21, 2015 1h 23m Comedy Drama

Tim and Lee are married with a young child. The chance to stay at a fancy home in the Hollywood Hills is complicated by Tim's discovery of a bone and a rusty old gun in the yard. Tim is excited by the idea of a mystery, but Lee doesn't want him to dig any further, preferring that he focus on the family taxes, which he promised to do weeks ago. This disagreement sends them on separate and unexpected adventures over the course of a weekend, as Tim and his friends seek clues to the mystery while Lee searches for answers to the bigger questions of marriage and parenthood.

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Directed by Joe Swanberg

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Joe Swanberg
Writer
  • Joe Swanberg
  • Jake Johnson
Producer
  • Jake Johnson
  • Alicia Van Couvering
  • Joe Swanberg

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Digging for Fire 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 Joe Swanberg 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 Digging for Fire took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 108 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 155 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Finn & the Sea of Noise, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Digging for Fire offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Summer League and Quelques jours avec Clémence explore similar territory, Digging for Fire stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: August 21, 2015
  • Runtime: 1h 23m

Where to Watch

fuboTV