Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Russ Doughten
Writer
- Dick Talarico
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Face in the Mirror 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 Russ Doughten 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 1982, 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 Face in the Mirror took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 65 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 99 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2076 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Face in the Mirror shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dazed and Confused, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Face in the Mirror subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Parent's Night and Lolita explore similar territory, Face in the Mirror 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 15, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 5m
