Cast
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Arlo Guthrie
as Arlo Guthrie
Patricia Quinn
as Alice Brock
James Broderick
as Ray Brock
Tina Chen
as Mari-chan
Geoff Outlaw
as Roger Crowther
Michael McClanathan
as Shelly
Pete Seeger
as Himself
Lee Hays
as Himself
Kathleen Dabney
as Karin
William Obanhein
as Himself - Officer Obie
Seth Allen
as Evangelist
Monroe Arnold
as Blueglass
Joseph Boley
as Woody Guthrie
Vinnette Carroll
as Draft Clerk
Sylvia Davis
as Marjorie Guthrie
Crew
Director
- Arthur Penn
Producer
- Hillard Elkins
- Joseph Manduke
- Harold Leventhal
- Gene Lasko
- Bill Liberman
- Florence Nerlinger
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Alice's Restaurant 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 Arthur Penn 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 1969, 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 Alice's Restaurant took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1222 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1969, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- 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 Alice's Restaurant shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Forrest Gump, which focuses more on action than character development, Alice's Restaurant offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Saving Zoë and No Code of Conduct explore similar territory, Alice's Restaurant 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: August 20, 1969
- Runtime: 1h 51m
