Cast
View AllKevin Kline
as Joey Boca
Tracey Ullman
as Rosalie Boca
Joan Plowright
as Nadja
River Phoenix
as Devo Nod
William Hurt
as Harlan James
Keanu Reeves
as Marlon James
James Gammon
as Lt. Larry Schooner
Jack Kehler
as Sgt. Carlos Wiley
Victoria Jackson
as Lacey
Miriam Margolyes
as Joey's Mother
Alisan Porter
as Carla Boca
Jonathan Kasdan
as Dominic Boca
Heather Graham
as Bridget
Michelle Joyner
as Donna Joy
Shiri Appleby
as Millie
Crew
Director
- Lawrence Kasdan
Writer
- John Kostmayer
Producer
- Lauren Weissman
- Patrick Wells
- Ron Moler
- John Kostmayer
- Lynn Isenberg
- John P. Marsh
- Jeffrey Lurie
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
I Love You to Death represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime/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 Lawrence Kasdan 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 1990, 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 I Love You to Death took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1162 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While I Love You to Death shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bucket List, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I Love You to Death subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Knockaround Guys and Running with Scissors explore similar territory, I Love You to Death 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: April 6, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 34m