Cast
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Emily Mortimer
as Florence Green
Bill Nighy
as Mr. Brundish
Patricia Clarkson
as Violet Gamart
James Lance
as Milo North
Hunter Tremayne
as Mr. Keble
Honor Kneafsey
as Christine
Frances Barber
as Jessie Welford
Reg Wilson
as General Gamart
Michael Fitzgerald
as Mr. Raven
Nigel O'Neill
as Mr. Deben
Jorge Suquet
as Mr. Thornton
Lana O'Kell
as Ivy Welford
Adie Allen
as Mrs. Traill
Mary O'Driscoll
as Mrs. Keble
Charlotte Vega
as Kattie
Crew
Director
- Isabel Coixet
Producer
- Albert Sagalés
- Adolfo Blanco
- Jaume Banacolocha
- Joan Bas
- Chris Curling
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Bookshop 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 Isabel Coixet 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 The Bookshop took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.4 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- 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 The Bookshop shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike In the Name of the Father, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Bookshop subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Head Under Water and The Reader explore similar territory, The Bookshop 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: November 10, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 50m
- Budget: $5,400,000
- Revenue: $12,055,868
