Cast
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Emil Gallina
as Himself / Narrator
Willem Bosma
as Himself / Psychiatrist 1998-2004
George Phelps Jr.
as Himself / Anne Arundel County Deputy Sheriff 1951-1976
Luis Flores
as Himself / Psychiatrist, Unit Director 1968-1988
Essie Sutton
as Herself - Volunteer Services 1960-2004
Janice Hayes-Williams
as Herself / Researcher
Dennis Dupont
as Himself / Chaplain 1995-2004
Cathie Dewey
as Herself / Clinical Nurse Specialist 1989-2004
Errol Phillips
as Himself / Psychiatrist 1970-1972
Steven Isaac
as Himself / Psychiatric Aid, Nurse 1965-2004
Sarah Maddox
as Herself / Nurse's Aid 1952-1982
Harold Bausum
as Himself / Security Guard 1951-1958
David Keys
as Himself / Refrigeration Technician 1995-2003
Jackie Allsup
as Herself / Psychiatric Aid, Health Assistant, Assistant Director of Nursing 1970-1989
Carlos Fenwick
as Himself / Patient 1986-1988
Crew
Director
- R. Todd Stevens
Writer
- Patrick O'Connell
Producer
- R. Todd Stevens
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Crownsville Hospital: From Lunacy to Legacy represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History 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 R. Todd Stevens 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 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Crownsville Hospital: From Lunacy to Legacy took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 151 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2018, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Crownsville Hospital: From Lunacy to Legacy 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 Comic Book Greats: Bob Kane, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Crownsville Hospital: From Lunacy to Legacy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Comic Book Greats: Jim Lee and The Comic Book Greats: Will Eisner explore similar territory, Crownsville Hospital: From Lunacy to Legacy 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: October 18, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 48m
Where to Watch
