Cast
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Sam Peckinpah
as Self (archive footage)
Mario Adorf
as Self
R.G. Armstrong
as Self
Senta Berger
as Self
Ernest Borgnine
as Self
James Coburn
as Self
Gordon T. Dawson
as Self
Roger Fritz
as Self
Vadim Glowna
as Self
Chalo González
as Self
Katherine Haber
as Self
Bo Hopkins
as Self
L.Q. Jones
as Self
Kris Kristofferson
as Self
Martin Lewis
as Self
Crew
Director
- Mike Siegel
Writer
- Mike Siegel
Producer
- Mike Siegel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Mike Siegel 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 2005, 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 Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 169 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2005, 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 Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Who’s Counting? Marilyn Waring on Sex, Lies and Global Economics, which focuses more on action than character development, Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A la diestra del cielo and Big Pun: The Legacy explore similar territory, Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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 1, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 55m
