Cast
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Sharon Thorpe
as Dr. Klein
Lesllie Bovee
as Leslie
Turk Lyon
as Bob
Annette Haven
as Olivia
John Leslie
as Richard
Bonnie Holiday
as Joey's Girl
Joey Silvera
as Joey
Desiree West
as Pat
Dashile Miguele
as Pat's Husband
Mira Vane
as Shell, Sex Therapist
Clair Dia
as Second Hooker
Candida Royalle
as Debbie
Ken Scudder
as Dr. Wasserman
Crew
Director
- Carlos Tobalina
Writer
- Carl Esser
- Carlos Tobalina
Producer
- Carlos Tobalina
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Carnal Haven represents a fascinating example of Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Carlos Tobalina 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1978, 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 Carnal Haven took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 50 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Carnal Haven shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Uncut Gems, which focuses more on action than character development, Carnal Haven offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Lowlife and The Night explore similar territory, Carnal Haven stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 1, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 17m
