Cast
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Meryl Streep
as Carolyn Ryan
Liam Neeson
as Ben Ryan
Edward Furlong
as Jacob Ryan
Julia Weldon
as Judith Ryan
Alfred Molina
as Panos Demeris
Daniel von Bargen
as Fran Conklin
John Heard
as Wendell Bye
Ann Magnuson
as Terry Taverner
Alison Folland
as Martha Taverner
Kaiulani Lee
as Marian Raynor, Prosecutor
Larry Pine
as Dr. Tom McAnally
Ellen Lancaster
as Panos' Assistant
Wesley Addy
as Judge Grady
Oliver Graney
as T.J.
Bernadette Quigley
as T.J.'s Mom
Crew
Director
- Barbet Schroeder
Producer
- Barbet Schroeder
- Susan Hoffman
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Edward Furlong "Jacob" puts in a reasonable effort here, but otherwise this is a really unremarkable drama that muddles along despite rather than because of the two stars at the top of the bill. When a young girl is murdered, he is the suspect and so dad "Liam Neeson" immediately takes steps to help his son by destroying what looks like damning evidence. The ensuing court case pushes the usual array of buttons as the intra-familial relationships between him, his father, mother (Meryl Streep) and sister "Judith" (Julia Weldon) are strained. Alfred Molina is actually quite plausible as the win-at-all-costs lawyer "Demeris" and we plod along, glacially, to a ending about which I couldn't actually care. It's not a terrible film, all of the cast deliver what is asked of them, but the narrative meanders all over the shop all too often; the dialogue and faux-emotional scenes are flat and the ending just re-iterated a question that so many of these pointless dramas are predicated on... Why not just go to the police in the first place and rely on them to do their jobs properly?
Apr 24, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Before and After 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 Barbet Schroeder 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 1996, 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 Before and After took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $35.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 417 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- 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 Before and After shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Daari Thappida Maga, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Before and After subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like American Gigolo and Confidentially Yours explore similar territory, Before and After 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: February 23, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $35,000,000
- Revenue: $8,797,839
