Cast
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Joss Ackland
as Alan Holly
Pat Heywood
as Audrey Holly
Patricia Routledge
as Ivy
Lionel Jeffries
as Laurence
Tom Wilkinson
as Stephen
Deborah Findlay
as Lisa
Louise Smith
as Lisa and Stephen's Daughter
Thomas Horton
as Lisa and Stephen's Son
Katie Combs
as Lisa and Stephen's Daughter
Sophie Thursfield
as Shana
Laura Davenport
as Sandra
Thomas Wheatley
as Sandra's Stephen
Tom Hunt
as Sandra and Stephen's Son
Andrew Bevan
as Sandra and Stephen's Son
Amanda Lines
as Receptionist
Crew
Director
- Alan Dossor
Writer
- Michael Frayn
Producer
- Alan Dossor
- Michael Wearing
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, First and Last 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 Alan Dossor 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 1989, 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 First and Last took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 132 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 161 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: December 12, 1989
- Runtime: 2h 12m