Cast
View All
Alec Baldwin
as Gino Fratelli
Michael Madsen
as Enzo
Shannen Doherty
as Maria
Danny Glover
as Eddie 'Rocks' Travor
Annabella Sciorra
as Mary
Joseph D'Onofrio
as Matty
Louis Lombardi
as Jerry Velvontie
Manny Perez
as Jose
Paul Borghese
as Carmine Tacona
Patricia Stark
as Lauren Freeman
Jimmy Palumbo
as Carmine Tacona
Maria May
as Young Maria
Morgan Hammel
as Gina
Regina Hardy
as Boxing Fan
Shirville Jarvis
as Judge #2
Crew
Director
- Paul Borghese
Producer
- William DeMeo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Back in the Day 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 Paul Borghese 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 Back in the Day took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 121 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 181 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Back in the Day shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Million Dollar Baby, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Back in the Day subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Leather Gloves and Raging Bull explore similar territory, Back in the Day stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 20, 2016
- Runtime: 2h 1m
