Cast
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Jennifer Dale
as Martha Gordon
Margaret Langrick
as Young Edie
Andrea Martin
as Ruth Morton
Lois Maxwell
as Edie Carmichael
Tom Butler
as Ted Gordon
Jeff Christensen
as Chris Watters
Page Fletcher
as Whitney Gerrard
Lynne Gorman
as Rosalie
Helen Hughes
as Clara
Tom Jackson
as Morrie
Frank Moore
as Charles Morton
Kate Trotter
as Mrs. Peebles
Damir Andrei
as Jim
Genevieve Appleton
as Karen Gordon
Paul Brogren
as Eddie Gordon
Crew
Director
- Norma Bailey
- Deepa Mehta
- Danièle J. Suissa
Producer
- Deepa Mehta
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Martha, Ruth & Edie 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 Norma Bailey 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 1988, 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 Martha, Ruth & Edie took approximately 26 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 139 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 74 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Martha, Ruth & Edie shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kissed, which focuses more on action than character development, Martha, Ruth & Edie subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Open Window and The Chipmunk Adventure explore similar territory, Martha, Ruth & Edie 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: August 25, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 32m
