Cast
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Hoyt Axton
as Cyrus Flint
Lynn Anderson
as Laura Pritchett
Mel Tillis
as Dennis Pritchett
Larry Gatlin
as Roger
Julie Gregg
as Joan
Tom T. Hall
as Ghost of Jacob Burley
Barbara Mandrell
as Emmy
Martha Raye
as The Ghost of Christmas Past
The Statler Brothers
as The Flint City Four
Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass
as The Ghost of Christmas Present
Dottie West
as Annabelle Williams
Steven Lutz
as T.J.
Byron Webster
as Mr. Abbey
Carol Swarbrick
as Mrs. Abbey
Dave Madden
as Stanley Gershen
Crew
Director
- Marc Daniels
Writer
- Mel Mandel
Producer
- Joseph Cates
- Marc Daniels
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol represents a fascinating example of Music/Family/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 Marc Daniels 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 1979, 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 Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol took approximately 28 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 screenplay went through 15 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 costume department created over 108 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aladdin, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Moulin Rouge! and A Christmas Story explore similar territory, Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol 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 18, 1979
- Runtime: 2h
