Cast
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Issa Rae
as Mae Eames
LaKeith Stanfield
as Michael Block
Chanté Adams
as Christina Eames
Y'lan Noel
as Young Isaac
Kelvin Harrison, Jr.
as Andy Morrison
Lil Rel Howery
as Kyle
Teyonah Parris
as Asia
Jasmine Cephas Jones
as Rachel Miller
Wakeema Hollis
as Denise Holness
Rob Morgan
as Isaac Jefferson
Chelsea Peretti
as Sara Rodgers
Courtney B. Vance
as Louis Morton
Christopher Cassarino
as Billy Wasko
Kenneth Kynt Bryan
as Dancer
Jamaal Burcher
as Server
Crew
Director
- Stella Meghie
Producer
- Will Packer
- James Lopez
Reviews
Crazypiglady
Mae, looking into her late photographer mother's New Orleans past, meets Mike, researching the same story as a journalist. The film journeys between New York and New Orleans and the earlier life of Mae's mother alongside her own.
It Stylishly explores relationships and how they can be left unresolved and how the mistakes of our parents influence our own choices.
Mar 9, 2023
CinemaSerf
"Michael" (LaKeith Stanfield - who has great taste in coats/jackets) is a journalist who travels to interview a man who has just lost his wife. During his visit to the man's home he spies a photograph of a girl taken by Chanté Adams ("Christina"). Once back in New Orleans, he tries to track down more work from this photographer and that introduces him to "Mae" (Issa Rae), the assistant curator at a gallery with whom he falls in love. The remainder of this rather ponderous tale takes us through their pretty ordinary courtship and involves a touch too much coincidence for me - in the end it just ends up being a slightly quirky love story with competent performances from the two lead actors. At times the soundtrack is wonderful - soulful and melodic jazz typical of the Louisiana location but otherwise this is just an unremarkable 100 minutes.
Apr 15, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Photograph examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Stella Meghie 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 2020, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Photograph took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $16.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1123 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2020, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Photograph shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Eat, which focuses more on action than character development, The Photograph subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like My Dinner with Andre and Shock Corridor explore similar territory, The Photograph 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: February 14, 2020
- Runtime: 1h 46m
- Budget: $16,000,000
- Revenue: $20,690,779
Where to Watch
