Cast
View AllLuciano Romano
as Jim
Robert Llewellyn
as The Stranger
Jean Boht
as Mrs. Leaver
Doug Bradley
as Mr. Winthrop
Daniel Burke
as Jim, 4 years old
Jennifer Calvert
as Mrs. Totteridge
Sean Connolly
as Mr. Arthur T. Bowen
Sarah Cronin-Stanley
as Dogs Home Attendant
Nick Frost
as Wally
Ann Gosling
as Karen
Danny Green
as Bully's Mate
Amy Griffin
as Karen, 8 years old
Chris Jury
as Mr. Totteridge
Amy Micklewhite
as Reporter / Photographer
Jessica Muschamp
as Tanya
Crew
Director
- Bob Keen
Writer
- Tony Clarke
Producer
- Kevin Nelson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Jim's Gift represents a fascinating example of Family/Adventure/Comedy/Fantasy/TV Movie 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 Bob Keen 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 1996, 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 Jim's Gift took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1782 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jim's Gift shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kishiryu Sentai Ryusoulger The Movie: Time Slip! Dinosaur Panic!!, which focuses more on action than character development, Jim's Gift subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home and Back to the Future Part III explore similar territory, Jim's Gift 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: January 1, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 34m
