Cast
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Peter Riegert
as Jason Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Diane Lane
as Liza ("Growing Yourself")
Candy Clark
as Susan Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Teresa Ganzel
as Diana ("Growing Yourself")
Irene Cagen
as Crazed Wife - 'Municipalians'
Schnootie Neff
as Jennifer Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Andy Shakman
as Josh Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Tamar Howard
as Judy Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Ina Fried
as Jeffrey Cooper ("Growing Yourself")
Barry Michlin
as Fireman ("Growing Yourself")
Trinidad Silva
as Carlos ("Growing Yourself")
John Lawlor
as Mr. Haggis ("Growing Yourself")
Susan Krebs
as Lady Who Beats Her Plants ("Growing Yourself")
Nedra Volz
as Old Lady ("Growing Yourself")
Stanley Lawrence
as Sanitation Man ("Growing Yourself")
Crew
Director
- Bob Giraldi
- Henry Jaglom
Writer
- Shary Flenniken
- Pat Mephitis
- Ellis Weiner
- Tod Carroll
- Gerald Sussman
Producer
- Matty Simmons
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
National Lampoon's Movie Madness represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Bob Giraldi 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 1982, 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 National Lampoon's Movie Madness took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- 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
Details
- Release Date: April 23, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $5,027,193
Where to Watch
