Cast
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Joseph Cross
as Augusten Burroughs
Annette Bening
as Deirdre Burroughs
Brian Cox
as Dr. Finch
Gwyneth Paltrow
as Hope Finch
Joseph Fiennes
as Neil Bookman
Evan Rachel Wood
as Natalie Finch
Alec Baldwin
as Norman Burroughs
Jill Clayburgh
as Agnes Finch
Gabrielle Union
as Dorothy
Patrick Wilson
as Michael Shephard
Kristin Chenoweth
as Fern Stewart
Dagmara Dominczyk
as Suzanne
Colleen Camp
as Joan
Jack Kaeding
as Six-Year-Old Augusten Burroughs
Gabriel Guedj
as Poo
Crew
Director
- Ryan Murphy
Producer
- Brad Pitt
- Ryan Murphy
- Brad Grey
- Augusten Burroughs
- Bonnie Weis
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Running with Scissors 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 Ryan Murphy 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 2006, 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 Running with Scissors took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $12.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 63 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1869 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- 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 Running with Scissors 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 Hottest State, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Running with Scissors subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Morvern Callar and Through My Window: Across the Sea explore similar territory, Running with Scissors 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: October 27, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Budget: $12,000,000
- Revenue: $6,754,898
