Cast
View All
Eric Deacon
as Mick
Victoria Williams
as Jenny Peterson
Martin Skinner
as Colin
Robert Cotton
as Don
Nicholas Young
as Raymond
Peter Vaughan-Clarke
as Robbie
Rula Lenska
as Rita
Richard Mathews
as Mr Ramlin
Rosalind Knight
as Mrs Ramlin
Sue Holderness
as Christine
Bernadette Milnes
as Mrs Peterson
Catherine Crewe
as Miss Harris
Freddie Earlle
as Gon
Bernard Hill
as Syph
Jonathan Adams
as Henry VIII
Crew
Director
- Stanley A. Long
Writer
- Michael Armstrong
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
It Could Happen to You represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Stanley A. Long 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 1976, 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 It Could Happen to You took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 78 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1976, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- 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 It Could Happen to You shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Gay Man's Guide to Safer Sex, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, It Could Happen to You offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Sara Dale’s Sensual Massage and Asking For It: the Ethics & Erotics of Sexual Consent explore similar territory, It Could Happen to You stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 11, 1976
- Runtime: 1h 18m
