Cast
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Dick O'Neill
as Gen. Eulace C. Buxley
Victor French
as Sgt. Maj. Chester B. Sweet
Louise Latham
as Bettina Buxley
Rad Daly
as Jeremy Ross
Monte Markham
as Col. Joe Buxley
Ruta Lee
as Ernestine Di Gonzini
Vito Scotti
as Count Sergio Luchesi Di Gonzini
Don Porter
as Judge Oliver Haynes
Steve Franken
as Virgil Quinby
Renne Jarrett
as Emily Wakefield
Christian Juttner
as Cadet Capt. Hubert Fletcher
Tricia Cast
as Posie Taylor
Guy Raymond
as Ben Grissom
John Myhers
as E.L. Hart
Joe Tornatore
as Vincent
Crew
Director
- Bruce Bilson
Producer
- Jerome Courtland
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Ghosts of Buxley Hall represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family/Fantasy/TV Movie 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 Bruce Bilson 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 1980, 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 The Ghosts of Buxley Hall took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 174 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2169 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Ghosts of Buxley Hall shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Ghosts of Buxley Hall offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban explore similar territory, The Ghosts of Buxley Hall 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: December 21, 1980
- Runtime: 2h
Where to Watch
