Cast
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Ted Danson
as Jim Tuite
Jennifer Jason Leigh
as Teri Small
Brian Dennehy
as Sen. Donald Riegle
Marg Helgenberger
as Jerrilynn Folz
Steven Weber
as Jared Gallimore
Matt Keeslar
as Chris Small
Robin Gammell
as Clark Nugent
Sabrina Grdevich
as Sandra
C. David Johnson
as Steve Robertson
Cynthia Dale
as Lisa Tuite
Amy Carlson
as Tammy Boyer
Kenneth Welsh
as Sen. Shelby
Booth Savage
as Gary Wall
Bruce Gray
as Sen. Rockefeller
Michael Rhoades
as Sgt. George Grass
Crew
Director
- Rod Holcomb
Writer
- John Sacret Young
Producer
- Lisa Niedenthal
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Thanks of a Grateful Nation 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 Rod Holcomb 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 1998, 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 Thanks of a Grateful Nation took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 204 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 225 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 264 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Thanks of a Grateful Nation shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Collin, which focuses more on action than character development, Thanks of a Grateful Nation subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Evening in Byzantium and CoinCoin and the Extra-Humans explore similar territory, Thanks of a Grateful Nation 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: May 31, 1998
- Runtime: 3h 24m
