Cast
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Crew
Director
- Tom Hanley
- Richard Hoyt
- Peter Tar-sian
Writer
- Tom Hanley
Producer
- Tom Hanley
- Lowell Pickett
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, What About Jane 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 Tom Hanley 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 1972, 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 What About Jane took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 418 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While What About Jane 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 Good Heart, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, What About Jane subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like What's Up, Doc? and Frisky explore similar territory, What About Jane stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 5, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 23m
- Budget: $20,000
