Cast
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Donna Reed
as Sheila Callahan
Efrem Zimbalist Jr.
as Bill Reardon
Mildred Dunnock
as Rose Price
Betty White
as Sally Cantrell
John Phillip Law
as Dr. Gary Mancini
Stephanie Zimbalist
as Maryanne Callahan
Michael Shannon
as Patrick Callahan
Gregory Harrison
as Rick Jawlosky
Timothy Hutton
as Tommy Callahan
Lloyd Bochner
as Bob Stockwood
Madlyn Rhue
as Emily Stockwood
Rick Jason
as Paul Bellinger
Alice Backes
as Kitty Rawlings
Peggy Converse
as Jean Callahan
Leon Ames
as William Callahan
Crew
Director
- David Miller
Writer
- Stanford Whitmore
Producer
- Ross Hunter
- Jacques Mapes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Best Place to Be 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 David Miller 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 1979, 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 The Best Place to Be took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 195 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 236 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 276 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Best Place to Be shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Water, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Best Place to Be offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Lemon Tree and Rocco and His Brothers explore similar territory, The Best Place to Be 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: May 27, 1979
- Runtime: 3h 15m
