Cast
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Marsha Mason
as Lois Gibbs
Bob Gunton
as Harry Gibbs
Penny Fuller
as Jeannie Kolchak
Roberta Maxwell
as Mary Belinski
Jeremy Licht
as Michael Gibbs
Louise Latham
as Pat Kinsman
James Ray
as Mr. Bain
Bianca Taylor
as Gail Shepherd
Thomas Hill
as Dr. Halperin
Robert Picardo
as Larry McGuinness
Priscilla Morrill
as Mrs. Fowler
Raleigh Bond
as Dave Hobart
Mackenzie Astin
as Tony Belinski
Michael Flanagan
as Spokesman
Tina M. Kaye
as Missy Gibbs
Crew
Director
- Glenn Jordan
Writer
- Michael Zagor
Producer
- Robert Greenwald
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Glenn Jordan 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 1982, 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 Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 122 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1532 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal 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 Birds II: Land's End, which focuses more on action than character development, Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like If I Don't Come Home: Letters from D-Day and Les Misérables explore similar territory, Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal 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: February 17, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 40m
Where to Watch
