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A Prayer in the Dark

A Prayer in the Dark (1997)

The Hayworth family lives in a Quaker territory in up-state New York. The matriarch, Emily runs the local bank. Years before, she and her family took in troubled, young Jimmy Flood to protect him from his abusive father. Though one of Emily's grown daughters, Janet feels she did not belong in the quiet, devoutly religious community and left the Quakers, Emily believed that her family ties stayed strong. Real trouble comes to the family when Jimmy Flood returns to the house after busting out of prison with the help of Digby and Lester, and he takes Emily's family hostage in exchange for $4 million. If Emily fails to secure the money in time, her entire family will lose their lives. Determined to resolve the potentially deadly conflict in a peaceful manner, Emily calls an emergency meeting of the town friends to work out a solution and save her family.

Directed by Jerry Ciccoritti

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jerry Ciccoritti
Writer
  • Stanley Ellin
  • Andrew Laskos
Producer
  • Julian Marks

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, A Prayer in the Dark examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Jerry Ciccoritti 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 1997, 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 A Prayer in the Dark took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1997, when this film was released:
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: April 2, 1997
  • Runtime: 1h 31m

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