Cast
View AllBilly Barratt
as Ray
Michelle Fairley
as Kerry
Shaun Dingwall
as Scott
Owen McDonnell
as Pete
Stephen Boxer
as Judge Walden
James Tarpey
as Nathan
Debbie Honeywood
as Veronica
Stephen Campbell Moore
as Dr. Johann Keaton
Tom Burke
as William Ramsden
Neal Barry
as Kevin - Appropriate Adult
Tina Harris
as Sergeant Lucas
Kirsten Wright
as Serena
Zachary Barnfield
as Christie
Angela Wynter
as Grace
Matthew Aubrey
as Gary
Crew
Director
- Nick Holt
Producer
- Elinor Day
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Responsible Child 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 Nick Holt 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 2019, 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 Responsible Child took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1321 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 124 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Responsible Child shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Behind Enemy Lines, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Responsible Child subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Punch-Drunk Love and Zeit der Fische explore similar territory, Responsible Child 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 16, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 27m