Cast
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Suzanne Somers
as Mattie Wilson
Bruce Boxleitner
as Jack Gregory
Eric Braeden
as Ross Ford
John Rubinstein
as Richy Johnson
William Lucking
as Lewis Gordon
Ron Hayes
as Construction Boss
Arch Johnson
as Del Gregory
Al Checco
as Reverend Hale
Patsy Garrett
as Mrs. Hale
William Lanteau
as Tennis Court Manager
Gloria Manners
as Jenny Wilson
Reno Nichols
as Dealer
Billy Snyder
as Al
Ed King Cross
as Hotel Clerk
Steve Eastin
as First Workman
Crew
Director
- Robert Scheerer
Writer
- Garry Michael White
Producer
- Robert Lovenheim
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Happily Ever After represents a fascinating example of Romance/Comedy/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Robert Scheerer 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 1978, 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 Happily Ever After took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Happily Ever After shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Three Days to Vegas, which focuses more on action than character development, Happily Ever After offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Cooler and It Stains the Sands Red explore similar territory, Happily Ever After stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: September 5, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 35m
