Cast
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Cybill Shepherd
as Amanda Kelly
Elliott Gould
as Robert Condon
Angela Lansbury
as Miss Froy
Herbert Lom
as Dr. Egon Hartz
Arthur Lowe
as Jeremy Charters
Ian Carmichael
as Caldicott
Gerald Harper
as Todhunter
Jenny Runacre
as Mrs. Todhunter
Jean Anderson
as Baroness
Madlena Nedeva
as Nun
Madge Ryan
as Rose Flood Porter
Rosalind Knight
as Evelyn Barnes
Gary McDermott
as Baroness' Servant
Barbara Markham
as Frau Kummer
Vladek Sheybal
as Trainmaster
Crew
Director
- Anthony Page
Producer
- Tom Sachs
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Lady Vanishes represents a fascinating example of Mystery/Thriller/Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Anthony Page 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1979, 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 The Lady Vanishes took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Lady Vanishes shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Yaksha: Ruthless Operations, which focuses more on action than character development, The Lady Vanishes subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Rendezvous and Diamonds Are Forever explore similar territory, The Lady Vanishes 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: April 30, 1979
- Runtime: 1h 37m
