Cast
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Trevor Howard
as Sir Henry Rawlinson
Vivian Stanshall
as Hubert Rawlinson / Narrator
Patrick Magee
as Reverend Slodden
Denise Coffey
as Mrs E
J.G. Devlin
as Old Scrotum
Harry Fowler
as Buller Bullethead
Sheila Reid
as Lady Florrie Rawlinson
Suzanne Danielle
as Candice Rawlinson
Daniel Gerroll
as Ralph Rawlinson
Ben Aris
as Lord Tarquin of Staines
Liz Smith
as Lady Phillipa of Staines
Susan Porrett
as Porcelain
Ian McDiarmid
as Reg Smeeton
Jeremy Child
as Peregrine Maynard
Gary Waldhorn
as Max
Crew
Director
- Steve Roberts
Writer
- Vivian Stanshall
- Steve Roberts
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Sir Henry at Rawlinson End 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 Steve Roberts 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 1980, 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 Sir Henry at Rawlinson End took approximately 29 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 131 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1524 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Sir Henry at Rawlinson End shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike North, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Sir Henry at Rawlinson End subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Glory Daze and Aberdeen explore similar territory, Sir Henry at Rawlinson End 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: November 7, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 11m
