Cast
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Anthony Way
as Tom Long
Nigel Le Vaillant
as Thomas Long (Adult)
Marlene Sidaway
as Doris Schuster
Serena Gordon
as Melody Long
Greta Scacchi
as Aunt Gwen Kitson
James Wilby
as Uncle Alan Kitson
Alfie Lawrence
as Harriet Long
Mel Martin
as Alice Long
Nick Robinson
as Peter Long
Liz Smith
as Mrs Willows
Arlene Cockburn
as Susan the Maid
Tom Bowles
as Mr Ferguson
Joan Plowright
as Mrs Bartholomew
David Bradley
as Abel
Stuart Piper
as Hubert
Crew
Director
- Willard Carroll
Producer
- Charles Salmon
- Adam Shapiro
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Tom's Midnight Garden represents a fascinating example of Family/Mystery/Adventure/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Willard Carroll 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, 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 Tom's Midnight Garden took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- 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 Tom's Midnight Garden shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cube, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Tom's Midnight Garden subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Odin og trollmysteriet and Big Trouble in Little China explore similar territory, Tom's Midnight Garden 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: July 2, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 47m
