Backdrop preview Acrimonious backdrop
Acrimonious

Acrimonious (2020)

Oct 01, 2020 14m Drama

Returning to the London council house he grew up in after a non-acrimonious divorce, Emeka's caught between worlds - left wondering how to belong.

Directed by Olivia Emden

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Olivia Emden
Writer
  • Joey Akubeze
  • Olivia Emden
Producer
  • Sam Brain

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Acrimonious 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 Olivia Emden 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 2020, 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 Acrimonious took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 14 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 65 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 30 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2020, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Acrimonious shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Philadelphia, which focuses more on action than character development, Acrimonious offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Opposite of Sex and Lovely Man explore similar territory, Acrimonious 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 1, 2020
  • Runtime: 14m

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