Cast
View AllDavid James Lewis
as Daniel
Ivy Vine
as Adrian
Emma Lahana
as Adrian the Actress
Tara Frederick
as Maddy
Bill Dow
as Marcus
Krystal Vrba
as Cliche
Andrew Zachar
as Cop
Danielle Munro
as Fleur
Valerie Pauwels
as Cense / Dancer
Bo Fred Olsson
as Doctor
Nicola Anderson
as Olvida
Candace Chase
as Jeux
Diana Bilkevitch
as Dancer
Colby Wilson
as Guy in Bar
Raf Rogers
as Guy in Bar (as Rafael Pellerin)
Crew
Director
- Ileana Pietrobruno
Writer
- Ileana Pietrobruno
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Girlfriend Experience 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 Ileana Pietrobruno 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 2008, 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 Girlfriend Experience took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1601 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Girlfriend Experience shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Raptus, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Girlfriend Experience subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like In the Navel of the Sea and Charly explore similar territory, Girlfriend Experience 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: December 6, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 22m