Cast
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Sidney Poitier
as Alan Newell
Anne Bancroft
as Inga Dyson
Telly Savalas
as Dr. Joe Coburn
Steven Hill
as Mark Dyson
Ed Asner
as Det. Judd Ridley
Indus Arthur
as Marian
Paul Newlan
as Sgt. Harry Ward
Dabney Coleman
as Charlie
H.M. Wynant
as Doctor Morris
Robert F. Hoy
as Patrolman Steve Peters
Greg Jarvis
as Chris Dyson
Jason Wingreen
as Medical Technician
Marjorie Nelson
as Mrs. Thomas
Steven Marlo
as Arthur Foss
Thomas Hill
as Liquor Salesman
Crew
Director
- Sydney Pollack
Writer
- Stirling Silliphant
Producer
- Stephen Alexander
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Slender Thread 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 Sydney Pollack 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 1965, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Slender Thread took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 74 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1399 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Slender Thread shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Candyman, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Slender Thread subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Elizabethtown and Mädchen in Uniform explore similar territory, The Slender Thread 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: December 15, 1965
- Runtime: 1h 38m
