Cast
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Bette Midler
as Dr. Deborah Finegold-Fifer
Woody Allen
as Nick Fifer
Bill Irwin
as Mime
Daren Firestone
as Sam Fifer
Rebecca Nickels
as Jennifer Fifer
Paul Mazursky
as Doctor Hans Clava
Joan Delaney
as Woman Interviewer
Gregory Moore
as Barber Shop Quartet
Jonathan Guss
as Barber Shop Quartet
Darrell Mason
as Joe Cool & The Coolers
Marc Shaiman
as Pianist
Amanda Bruce
as Woman Interviewee
Betsy Mazursky
as Information Woman
Jack Brodsky
as Pharmacist
Patrick Farrelly
as Santa
Crew
Director
- Paul Mazursky
Writer
- Paul Mazursky
- Roger L. Simon
Producer
- Paul Mazursky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Scenes from a Mall represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Paul Mazursky 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 1991, 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 Scenes from a Mall took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Scenes from a Mall shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Me, Myself & Irene, which focuses more on action than character development, Scenes from a Mall offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me explore similar territory, Scenes from a Mall 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 22, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Budget: $3,000,000
- Revenue: $9,563,393
