Cast
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Winona Ryder
as Dinky Bossetti
Jeff Daniels
as Denton Webb
Stephen Tobolowsky
as Mayor Bill Klepler
Dinah Manoff
as Evelyn Whittacher
Laila Robins
as Elizabeth Zaks
Thomas Wilson Brown
as Gerald Howells
Joan McMurtrey
as Barbara Webb
Graham Beckel
as Les Bossetti
Frances Fisher
as Rochelle Bossetti
Robby Kiger
as Beannie Billings
Sachi Parker
as Libby Ohiemacher
Micole Mercurio
as Louise Garweski
John Short
as Ronald Reems
Robin Thomas
as Scotty Sandholtzer
Valerie Landsburg
as Miss Day Ashburn
Crew
Director
- Jim Abrahams
Writer
- Karen Leigh Hopkins
Producer
- Penney Finkelman Cox
Reviews
Wuchak
**_Teenage Winona Ryder as a misfit coming-of-age in northwest Ohio_**
A celebrity from a small town in the Sandusky Bay region is finally returning home for a visit and members of the town react in different ways. A nonconformist teen (Ryder) has suspicions about the ‘star’ while developing a relationship with the school’s guidance counselor (Laila Robins) and pestering a man who has a history with Roxy (Jeff Daniels).
"Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael" (1990) is sometimes listed as a comedy, but it’s not; it’s a coming-of-age drama with satirical bits and occasional amusement. It’s not about the title character but about how that person’s ‘success’ and fame affect the locals who knew her or knew about her, not to mention those who appreciate her simply for putting their town on the map. This happened in real life with Dave Grohl, who returned to his birthplace, Warren, Ohio, in 2009, wherein he was given the key to the city at the celebration and an alley was named after him. The difference is that Grohl was only 3 years-old when his family left Warren whereas Roxy Carmichael was about 18.
What I like is that the flick captures the mundane existence of people in small town America, trying to find meaning and fulfillment, and not just teens, but adults too. For instance, did you ever have a solitary place where you went regularly as a kid that only you knew about and valued? That’s in this movie. Some bits are comical and some aren’t, but they’re all relevant to real-life: Trying to fit-in at school, being bullied, finding a surrogate mother or father (a mentor), romance, sex in the workplace, getting caught, shameful social secrets, delusional wishful thinking, and more.
The first half is too low-key and uneventful, but the movie finds its footing and delivers a worthwhile viewing experience despite foregone conclusions. I’m speaking as someone who was never smitten with Winona, who happened to be 18 years-old during shooting (in other words, fans of hers might appreciate this more than me). Redhead Frances Fisher was at the height of her physical beauty at 37 while another redhead, Dinah Manoff, is worth a mention as Evelyn.
The movie runs 1 hour, 35 minutes, and was shot in the Sandusky Bay area of northwest Ohio, including the town of Clyde.
GRADE: B-
Mar 9, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael 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 Jim Abrahams 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 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 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $13.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
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 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hazel's People, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Independence Day and Carrie explore similar territory, Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael 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 12, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Budget: $13,000,000
- Revenue: $3,989,297
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