Cast
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Evan Adams
as Seymour Polatkin
Michelle St. John
as Agnes Roth
Gene Tagaban
as Aristotle Joseph
Swil Kanim
as Mouse
Rebecca Carroll
as The Interviewer
Cynthia Geary
as Teresa
Leo Rossi
as Mr. Williams
Arthur Tulee
as Junior One
Jim Boyd
as Junior Two
Ron Otis
as White Motorist
William Joseph Elk III
as Tavern Father
Jennifer Elizabeth Kreisberg
as Salmon Girl (as Jennifer Kreisberg)
Elaine Miles
as Kim
Kevin Phillip
as Steven
Crew
Director
- Sherman Alexie
Writer
- Sherman Alexie
Producer
- Larry Estes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Business of Fancydancing 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 Sherman Alexie 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 2002, 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 The Business of Fancydancing took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2483 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Business of Fancydancing shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike More, which focuses more on action than character development, The Business of Fancydancing subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Life Is Hot in Cracktown and Big Eden explore similar territory, The Business of Fancydancing 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: January 14, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 43m
- Budget: $200,000
