Cast
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Rachel Weisz
as Deborah Lipstadt
Tom Wilkinson
as Richard Rampton
Timothy Spall
as David Irving
Andrew Scott
as Anthony Julius
Jack Lowden
as James Libson
Caren Pistorius
as Laura Tyler
Alex Jennings
as Sir Charles Gray
Harriet Walter
as Vera Reich
Mark Gatiss
as Professor Robert Jan van der Pelt
John Sessions
as Prof. Richard Evans
Nikki Amuka-Bird
as Libby Holbrook
Pip Carter
as Anthony Forbes-Watson
Jackie Clune
as Heather Rogers
Will Attenborough
as Thomas Skelton Robinson
Max Befort
as Nik Wachsman
Crew
Director
- Mick Jackson
Producer
- Gary Foster
- Russ Krasnoff
- Marta Habior
Reviews
Reno
**A courtroom drama about who's right and who's wrong!**
There are many factors to consider, especially for a film like this. Yep, the film was based on the real courtroom event. The film is about two people to prove they're right on their book about the war crimes whether that took place or not. So all the episodes take place in a British high court with mention of Auschwitz concentration camp, particularly about its ruins than the events that happened in there. That means it's a great drama to learn about how these two fought in a lawsuit face-off, but there's nothing about the real event just like the film 'The Eichmann Show'. If you are not a Jew or a neo nazi or not even a European and North American, then this is an okayish film from the entertainment aspect, other than learning truth and history.
I really expected some real events, but we have already seen in many films about Auschwitz camp. So they kept this film as a modern day court trial than mixing up with those old crime. Great acting by all. Timothy Spall nailed it in his negative role. He was just a fine supporting actor, till I started to recognise him since his genius display in a biopic, 'Mr. Turner'. This is his one of the top performances. He could play Don Trump in his biopic, beside Rob Redford who's a bit old for that. Rachel Weisz was okay. Her role was not strong enough, despite she's in the main character. Because everyone around her took the honour to rise above hers. Be it Tom Wilkinson, who was surprisingly awesome.
So in my perspective the film was good, but not great. The courtroom events lacked strong hold with what a film needs and what the viewers wants with twists and turns in the argument. But I'm very happy being honest than modifying its story to make film commercial worthy. Though the film had some its own moments, in the end it was not enough. Particularly how it concludes and to think why this trial even took place makes no sense at all. Seems more a joke than anything serious, just because of someone being crazily challenging and the other one responding to it. Anyway, it's still largely a sensitive matter and my view is just as an outsider. But the film is worth a watch, if you are not expecting a bigger picture after reading its synopsis.
_7/10_
Feb 14, 2017
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Denial 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 Mick Jackson 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 Denial took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 138 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 11 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.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Denial shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Forrest Gump, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Denial offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Oliver Twist and My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday explore similar territory, Denial 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: September 30, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $7,994,527
Where to Watch
