Cast
View AllAlana Boden
as Elizabeth Smart
Skeet Ulrich
as Brian David Mitchell
Deirdre Lovejoy
as Wanda Barzee
George Newbern
as Ed Smart
Anne Openshaw
as Lois Smart
Elizabeth Smart
as Herself - Narrator (voice)
Sarah Madison Barrow
as Olivia
Graem Beddoes
as Grocery Clerk
Jazmine Campanale
as Young Woman Driver
London Cardinal
as William Smart
Ethan Farrell
as Andrew
Peter Graham-Gaudreau
as Nevada Bus Driver
Devin Johnston
as Dave
Chelsey Moore
as Woman In Library
Cassidy Nugent
as Mary Katherine
Crew
Director
- Sarah Walker
Reviews
Lloyd
Excellent movie! I read about Elizabeth Smart since she was rescued and loved how this movie. One gets what she had to live through being a captive of these two phychos. I found it wonderful from beginning to end.
Nov 23, 2017
Kewl Kat
Kinda boring but that's how it was in real life. It's a good thing the police finally came along or else Elizabeth would still be a tent bride. This movie makes one thing perfectly clear, learn science and skip religion. It's a form of brainwashing that our country protects. It's evil. Her captors were evil and the religion her parents drown her in didn't do her any favors, either. Elizabeth can try and rationalize her story any way she likes, it's her life... but thinking that rain fall or a cup of water were "miracles" is flat out childish. A magic sky daddy didn't save her, cops did. And while I am happy she was rescued, she played practically no part in it. Being submissive and scared isn't heroic.
Nov 25, 2017
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, I Am Elizabeth Smart 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 Sarah Walker 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 I Am Elizabeth Smart took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 331 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While I Am Elizabeth Smart shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Battle in Seattle, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I Am Elizabeth Smart offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Against the Law and Black Water explore similar territory, I Am Elizabeth Smart 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 18, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 25m
Where to Watch




