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Because He's My Friend

Because He's My Friend (1978)

Jun 11, 1978 1h 30m Drama TV Movie

An American military man moves his family to Australia to undergo training in submarine warfare, providing new challenges for his wife and their developmentally disabled son.

Directed by Ralph Nelson

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Ralph Nelson
Writer
  • Peter Schreck

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Because He's My Friend 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 Ralph Nelson 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 1978, 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 Because He's My Friend took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 1178 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1978, when this film was released:
  • Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
  • The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Because He's My Friend shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Mary and Max, which focuses more on action than character development, Because He's My Friend subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Man from Snowy River and Looking for Alibrandi explore similar territory, Because He's My Friend stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: June 11, 1978
  • Runtime: 1h 30m