Backdrop preview Boatman backdrop
Boatman

Boatman (1984)

Mar 27, 1984 1h 50m Drama

An erstwhile boatman wants to do a little more than paddle his own canoe in the town famed for its waterfalls. He leaves the village of his roots for the city and lands a job as a live-sex actor called toro in street lingo derived from the Spanish term for bull. Quick successes in his newfound profession delude him into regarding that the measure of a man is in his trousers. He has a partner on stage and off. Despite her cynicism and tough veneer, she sees in him a way out of the slums and the red light district.

Directed by Tikoy Aguiluz

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Tikoy Aguiluz

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Boatman 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 Tikoy Aguiluz 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 1984, 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 Boatman took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 40 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 1142 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 108 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1984, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Boatman offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Edukators and The Science of Sleep explore similar territory, Boatman 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: March 27, 1984
  • Runtime: 1h 50m

Similar Movies