Cast
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Barbara Windsor
as Seaside landlady / Neil's mother
Joss Ackland
as Priest / murderer
Neil Dickson
as Pilot / car salesman
Neil Tennant
as Self
Chris Lowe
as Self
Gareth Hunt
as Uncle Dredge / postcard seller / ventriloquist
Dominique Barnes
as
Carmen du Sautoy
as
Glenn Webster
as Passer by
Stephanie Buttle
as Dancer
Heavon Grant
as Dancer
Natalie Roles
as Dancer
Chris Tudor
as Dancer
Tom Searle
as Dancer
Crew
Director
- Jack Bond
Writer
- Jack Bond
- James Dillon
Producer
- Jack Bond
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, It Couldn't Happen Here 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 Jack Bond 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 1988, 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 It Couldn't Happen Here took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 86 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 133 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- 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 It Couldn't Happen Here shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Adam's Apples, which focuses more on action than character development, It Couldn't Happen Here offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like American Psycho and Super Deluxe explore similar territory, It Couldn't Happen Here 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: June 8, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 26m
- Budget: $4,000,000
