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Girl Friday

Girl Friday (1994)

Dec 28, 1994 1h 5m Documentary

Glamorous actress Joanna Lumley undergoes a week's hardship on an isolated island off the coast of Madagascar. She is given a brief lesson in survival by the Royal Marines and is then deposited on the island with few provisions but a large BBC crew for company. With comic results Ms Lumley attempts to build a shelter and forage for food before succumbing to the offers of goodies from the camera crew.

Cast

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Joanna Lumley
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Joanna Lumley

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Crew

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Thematic Analysis

Girl Friday 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.

Released in 1994, 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 Girl Friday took approximately 24 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 92 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 150 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1994, when this film was released:
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Girl Friday shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Arctic Tale, which focuses more on action than character development, Girl Friday subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Story of the Weeping Camel and Thomas Hart Benton explore similar territory, Girl Friday stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: December 28, 1994
  • Runtime: 1h 5m

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