Cast
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James Franco
as Mac McLeod
Nat Wolff
as Jim Nolan
Selena Gomez
as Lisa London
Vincent D'Onofrio
as Al Anderson
Robert Duvall
as Chris Bolton
Ed Harris
as Joy
Sam Shepard
as Mr. Anderson
Bryan Cranston
as Sheriff
Zach Braff
as Connor
Josh Hutcherson
as Vinnie
Danny McBride
as Tramp
Ahna O'Reilly
as Edith "Edie" Malone
Lio Tipton
as Vera
Ashley Greene
as Danni Stevens
Austin Stowell
as Eddie
Crew
Director
- James Franco
Writer
- Matt Rager
Producer
- Ron Singer
- Iris Torres
- Andrea Iervolino
- James Franco
- Vince Jolivette
- Monika Bacardi
- Scott Reed
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, In Dubious Battle examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director James Franco 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 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of In Dubious Battle took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While In Dubious Battle shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Contact, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, In Dubious Battle subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Bridges of Madison County and Manhattan explore similar territory, In Dubious Battle 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: October 8, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 50m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $213,982
