Cast
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Catherine Tate
as Karen Cooper
Robert Pattinson
as Daniel Gale
Anne Reid
as Nancy Hesketh
Holliday Grainger
as Charlie Cooper
Steve Pemberton
as Leo Fairbrother
Maggie Ollerenshaw
as Jessie Pilkington
Oliver Lee
as Paul Benthem
Clare McGlinn
as Advisor Jo-Beth
Pip Torrens
as Doctor Gale
Kirsty Leigh Porter
as Anya
Caroline Harding
as Sandra Gale
Steve John Shepherd
as Steve Cooper
Angela Murray
as Adviser Annie
Steve Brody
as Tom
Olga Grahame
as Ivy
Crew
Director
- Robin Sheppard
Producer
- Sascha Schneider
- Harry Oulton
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Bad Mother's Handbook 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 Robin Sheppard 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 2007, 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 The Bad Mother's Handbook took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 71 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 408 unique costume pieces for the production.
- 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 2007, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Bad Mother's Handbook shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Walk in the Clouds, which focuses more on action than character development, The Bad Mother's Handbook offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Wild Chicks and Life and Charly explore similar territory, The Bad Mother's Handbook stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: February 19, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 11m
