Cast
View AllCourtney Thorne-Smith
as Emma Fielding
James Tupper
as Jim Conner
Mark Valley
as Duncan Thatcher
Adam DiMarco
as Joe
Tess Atkins
as Carey
Crystal Balint
as Ruby
Craig March
as Security Chief Breck
Sharon Taylor
as Sheriff Dunbar
Janet Kidder
as Dr. Althea Harrison
Peter Bryant
as Dean Hawkins
Courtney Richter
as Professor Paula Winter
Matty Finochio
as Professor Scott Thompson
Robert Turner
as Reid
Geoff Gustafson
as Dr. Biberman
Leanne Allen
as Nurse
Crew
Director
- Kevin Fair
Writer
- Phoef Sutton
- Dana Cameron
Producer
- Harvey Kahn
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Emma Fielding Mysteries: More Bitter Than Death represents a fascinating example of Mystery/TV Movie/Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kevin Fair 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Emma Fielding Mysteries: More Bitter Than Death took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 104 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 32 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Emma Fielding Mysteries: More Bitter Than Death 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 Ghost of the Neolithic, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Emma Fielding Mysteries: More Bitter Than Death offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like As Above, So Below and Prehistoric Women explore similar territory, Emma Fielding Mysteries: More Bitter Than Death 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: February 10, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 23m
Where to Watch



