Cast
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Matthew Lillard
as Herman Spooner
Nora Zehetner
as Rose Conlin
Shea Whigham
as Stan Manfretti
Pat Healy
as Carl
Joe Nuñez
as Juan
Wendi McLendon-Covey
as Linda
Mark Boone Junior
as George
Kate Burton
as Alice Spooner
Amy Ferguson
as Lily
Ben York Jones
as Young Couple
Mary Page Keller
as Joanne Conlin
Katie MacNichol
as Middle-Aged Couple
Christopher McDonald
as Dennis Spooner
Rob Neason
as Steve Mhyre
Brian Spillane
as Middle-Aged Couple
Crew
Director
- Drake Doremus
Writer
- Jonathan Schwartz
- Lindsay Stidham
- Drake Doremus
Producer
- Jonathan Schwartz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Spooner represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance 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 Drake Doremus 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 2009, 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 Spooner took approximately 3 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 131 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 892 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Spooner shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Celebrity, which focuses more on action than character development, Spooner subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Matador and Dreamers explore similar territory, Spooner stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 18, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 23m
