Cast
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Nicolas Cage
as Sailor Ripley
Laura Dern
as Lula Fortune
Diane Ladd
as Marietta Fortune
Willem Dafoe
as Bobby Peru
Harry Dean Stanton
as Johnnie Farragut
J.E. Freeman
as Marcelles Santos
Isabella Rossellini
as Perdita Durango
Grace Zabriskie
as Juana Durango
Calvin Lockhart
as Reggie
William Morgan Sheppard
as Mr. Reindeer
Crispin Glover
as Dell
Sheryl Lee
as The Good Witch
Sherilyn Fenn
as Girl in Accident
Jack Nance
as 00 Spool
Pruitt Taylor Vince
as Buddy
Crew
Director
- David Lynch
Producer
- Steve Golin
- Monty Montgomery
- Sigurjón Sighvatsson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Wild at Heart represents a fascinating example of Crime/Thriller/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director David Lynch 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 1990, 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 Wild at Heart took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $9.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 125 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 171 minutes long.
- 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.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Wild at Heart shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Loving Pablo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Wild at Heart offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Swarna Kaduva and The Ex explore similar territory, Wild at Heart 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: August 17, 1990
- Runtime: 2h 5m
- Budget: $9,500,000
- Revenue: $14,569,027
