Cast
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Walter Matthau
as Harmon Cobb
Harry Morgan
as Judge Bell
Stephanie Zimbalist
as Lily Margaret Bell
Nick Stahl
as John Bell Trenton
Bernard Behrens
as Judge Greeves
Lori Hallier
as Madeleine
David Nerman
as Frank Trenton
Dennis Strong
as Joseph Baldwin
James Blendick
as Seawright
Dee McCafferty
as Police Officer
Cara Pifko
as Nancy
Crew
Director
- Delbert Mann
Writer
- Cindy Myers
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Incident in a Small Town 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 Delbert Mann 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 1994, 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 Incident in a Small Town took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1994, 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 Incident in a Small Town shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Child I Never Was, which focuses more on action than character development, Incident in a Small Town offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Der Fall Bachmeier - Keine Zeit für Tränen and L'Âge d'or explore similar territory, Incident in a Small Town stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: January 23, 1994
- Runtime: 1h 25m
Where to Watch
