Cast
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Sam Shepard
as Willie Grogan
Hamish Linklater
as Tom Spangler
Alex Neustaedter
as Homer
Meg Ryan
as Mrs. Macauley
Jack Quaid
as Marcus Macauley
Tom Hanks
as Mr. Macauley
Nick Williams
as Texas
Christine Nelson
as Bess Macauley
Lucia Scarano
as Rosa Sandoval
Zachary Webber
as Horse
Trey Hines
as Harry
Lois Robbins
as Mrs. Beaufrere
Bridget Gethins
as Dolly Hawthorn
James McCool
as Lionel
Spencer Howell
as Ulysses Macauley
Crew
Director
- Meg Ryan
Producer
- Erik Jendresen
- Janet Brenner
- Laura Ivey
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Ithaca 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 Meg Ryan 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 Ithaca took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1671 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 64 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ithaca shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Battle: Freestyle, which focuses more on action than character development, Ithaca offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like In the Navel of the Sea and Candyman explore similar territory, Ithaca 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: October 29, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 36m
- Budget: $5,000,000
