Cast
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Gil Gerard
as Reinhart
Kevin Dobson
as Dr. Joel Blair
Alana Stewart
as Eva Blair
Justin Berfield
as Timmy Blair
Don McLeod
as Zamora
Henry Darrow
as Mr. Willard
Ted Monte
as Jason
Brinke Stevens
as Jenna
Mary Woronov
as Dr. Klein
Lori Nelson
as Stephanie
Ernest Harden Jr.
as Smitty
George Buck Flower
as Homeless Man
Richard Gabai
as Animal Control Officer
Terry Funk
as Jungle Ed
John O'Brien
as Nigel
Crew
Director
- Fred Olen Ray
Producer
- Fred Olen Ray
- Andrew Stevens
- Joe D'Angelo
- Alison Semenza
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Mom, Can I Keep Her? represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family 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 Fred Olen Ray 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 1998, 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 Mom, Can I Keep Her? took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Mom, Can I Keep Her? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ismail Yassine in the House of Ghosts, which focuses more on action than character development, Mom, Can I Keep Her? offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Mighty Joe Young and Sylvio explore similar territory, Mom, Can I Keep Her? 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: June 10, 1998
- Runtime: 1h 30m
