Cast
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Don Cheadle
as Petey Greene
Chiwetel Ejiofor
as Dewey Hughes
Bruce McFee
as Prison Sign-In Guard
Mike Epps
as Milo Hughes
Peter MacNeill
as Warden Cecil Smithers
Adam Gaudreau
as Escorting Guard
Taraji P. Henson
as Vernell Watson
Cedric the Entertainer
as 'Nighthawk' Bob Terry
Martin Sheen
as E.G. Sonderling
J. Miles Dale
as Program Director
Sean MacMahon
as Ronnie Simmons
Richard Chevolleau
as Poochie Braxton
Martin Randez
as Hadley
Todd Schroeder
as Guard Captain
Vondie Curtis-Hall
as Sunny Jim Kelsey
Crew
Director
- Kasi Lemmons
Producer
- Mark Gordon
- Sidney Kimmel
- Joe Fries
- Josh McLaughlin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Talk to Me 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 Kasi Lemmons 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 2007, 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 Talk to Me took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 478 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- 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 Talk to Me shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Children of a Lesser God, which focuses more on action than character development, Talk to Me subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Salvador (Puig Antich) and Or (My Treasure) explore similar territory, Talk to Me 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: July 13, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 58m
- Revenue: $4,778,376
Where to Watch
