Cast
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Ann Jillian
as Sarah Gladstone
Robert Hays
as Dr. Mike Greiser
Jack Palance
as Bob Greiser
Ashley Gorrell
as Jilly Greiser
Linda Sorensen
as Sheriff Maggie
Eric Peterson
as Dave
Bernard Behrens
as Hal
Tom Harvey
as Hap
Jack Jessop
as Nick Gladstone
Frances Hyland
as Thelma Jenkins
Stan Coles
as A.L. Drysdale
Joan Heney
as Edith Drysdale
Diego Matamoros
as Fred
Margaret Wright
as Mary Jenkins
Ralph Small
as Clete Smith
Crew
Director
- Jerry London
Writer
- Darrah Cloud
Producer
- Susan Murdoch
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, I'll Be Home For Christmas 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 London 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 I'll Be Home For Christmas took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- 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:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- 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
While I'll Be Home For Christmas shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Morvern Callar, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I'll Be Home For Christmas subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Spiral and A Christmas Mystery explore similar territory, I'll Be Home For Christmas 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 23, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 34m
Where to Watch
