Cast
View All
Tatum O'Neal
as Lawrencia Bembenek
Bruce Greenwood
as Fred Schultz
Peggy McCay
as Virginia Bembenek
Colin Fox
as Joe Bembenek
Kenneth Welsh
as Don Eisenberg
Catherine Disher
as Judy Zess
Richard Hughes
as Russ
Jordan Alan
as Prosecuting Attorney
Ron White
as Det. Rogers
Saul Rubinek
as Bill Bryson
Alex McArthur
as Nick Gugliatto
Barbara Eve Harris
as Zena Jackson
Ari Magder
as Sean Schultz
Graham Losee
as Shannon Schultz
Gail Webster
as Christine Schultz
Crew
Director
- Sandor Stern
Writer
- Sandor Stern
Producer
- Ian McDougall
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Woman on Trial: The Lawrencia Bembenek Story examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Sandor Stern 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 1993, 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 Woman on Trial: The Lawrencia Bembenek Story took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 200 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 250 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 59 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: May 16, 1993
- Runtime: 3h 20m