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The Last Flight of Noah's Ark

The Last Flight of Noah's Ark (1980)

Jun 24, 1980 1h 37m Adventure Family

The only chance to escape a desert island is to convert the plane carrying many different animals into a boat.

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Directed by Charles Jarrott

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Charles Jarrott
Writer
  • Ernest K. Gann
Producer
  • Ron Miller
  • Jan Williams

Reviews

r96sk
6/10

<em>'The Last Flight of Noah's Ark'</em> is average.

One of the reasons for that is the lacklustre plot, which is one we've practically already seen before from Disney in years prior - like 1960's <em>'Swiss Family Robinson'</em> and 1966's <em>'Lt. Robin Crusoe U.S.N.'</em>. This isn't incredibly similar to those two, but they are certainly in the same ballpark.

The premise doesn't have much about it in terms of action or heart, the ending threatens to finish with a highly meaningful moment but instead bottles it in favour of a more happier conclusion. Elsewhere, you have a forgettable cast. Elliott Gould (Dugan) and Geneviève Bujold (Bernadette) are alright, though they lack the necessary chemistry together.

Close to being a good'un, but just misses out in my books.

Sep 12, 2020

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Thematic Analysis

The Last Flight of Noah's Ark represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Family 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 Charles Jarrott 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 Last Flight of Noah's Ark took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The costume department created over 382 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1980, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Last Flight of Noah's Ark shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike A Simple Wish, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Last Flight of Noah's Ark subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Anne of Green Gables and La gran aventura de los Parchís explore similar territory, The Last Flight of Noah's Ark 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: June 24, 1980
  • Runtime: 1h 37m
  • Revenue: $11,000,000