Cast
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Vera Farmiga
as Corinne Walker
Donna Murphy
as Kathleen Walker
Dagmara Dominczyk
as Annika
John Hawkes
as CW Walker
Joshua Leonard
as Ethan Miller
Nina Arianda
as Wendy Walker
Taissa Farmiga
as Teenage Corinne Walker
Taylor Schwencke
as Young Wendy Walker
Boyd Holbrook
as Teenage Ethan Miller
Norbert Leo Butz
as Pastor Bill
Bill Irwin
as Pastor Bud
Michael Chernus
as Ned
Ebon Moss-Bachrach
as Luke
Sean Mahon
as Liam Donovan
Jack Gilpin
as Dr. Dick Adams
Crew
Director
- Vera Farmiga
Producer
- Matthew Parker
- Jon Rubinstein
- Carly Hugo
- Claude Dal Farra
- Renn Hawkey
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Higher Ground 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 Vera Farmiga 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 2011, 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 Higher Ground took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1316 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 39 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Higher Ground shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bridges of Madison County, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Higher Ground subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Piano and Little Miss Sunshine explore similar territory, Higher Ground stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: August 26, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Budget: $2,000,000
- Revenue: $841,733
