Cast
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Leah Ayres
as Cass Dayton
Shari Belafonte
as Julie Rhodes
Mary-Margaret Humes
as Lauren 'Boots' Daws
Sheree J. Wilson
as Ellen Stockwell
Michael Ensign
as Stefan
Polly Bergen
as Mrs. Vance
Bruce Abbott
as Breed
Anthony De Longis
as Rawls
Tom Demenkoff
as Cop
David Faustino
as Billy Vandermeer
Clyde Kusatsu
as Dr. Yashima
Andrea Marcovicci
as Erica Mueller
Leigh McCloskey
as James Barstow
Cis Rundle
as Flight Attendant
Judson Scott
as Mats Edholm
Crew
Director
- Richard Lang
Writer
- Ned Wynn
Producer
- Douglas S. Cramer
- Aaron Spelling
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Velvet 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 Richard Lang 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 1984, 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 Velvet took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1199 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Velvet shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 008: Operation Exterminate, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Velvet offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Dhruva Natchathiram: Chapter One – Yuddha Kaandam and Clear and Present Danger explore similar territory, Velvet 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: August 27, 1984
- Runtime: 1h 40m
