Cast
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Ashleigh Murray
as Deidra
Rachel Crow
as Laney
Tim Blake Nelson
as Truman
David Sullivan
as Chet
Danielle Nicolet
as Marigold
Sasheer Zamata
as Ms. Spencer
Missi Pyle
as Mrs. Fowler
Sharon Lawrence
as Veronica
Arturo Castro
as McMillan
Myko Olivier
as Jerry
Kinna McInroe
as Gloria
Brooke Markham
as Claire
Monica Moore Smith
as Highschooler
Deborah Lee Douglas
as Barbara
Gerry Garcia
as High-School Student
Crew
Director
- Sydney Freeland
Writer
- Shelby Farrell
Producer
- Susan Cartsonis
- Nick Moceri
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Deidra & Laney Rob a Train 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 Sydney Freeland 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 2017, 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 Deidra & Laney Rob a Train took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Deidra & Laney Rob a Train shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Children of a Lesser God, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Deidra & Laney Rob a Train subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like FC Venus and Or (My Treasure) explore similar territory, Deidra & Laney Rob a Train 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: January 23, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 32m
Where to Watch
