Cast
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Donna Akersten
as Samantha the Cat / The Sheep (voice)
Stuart Devenie
as Sebastian / Dr. Quack / Daisy the Cow / Sandy the Chicken (voice)
Mark Hadlow
as Heidi / Robert / Barry the Bulldog (voice)
Brian Sergent
as Wynyard the Frog / Trevor the Rat / The Fly (voice)
Ross Jolly
as (voice) (uncredited)
Peter Vere-Jones
as Bletch / Arfur the Worm (voice)
Mark Wright
as Sid the Elephant / The Cockroach / Louie the Fish (voice)
Danny Mulheron
as Heidi the Hippo (uncredited)
Jay Snowfield
as Killer man (uncredited)
Doug Wren
as Bletch (voice) (uncredited)
Peter Jackson
as Audience Member in the Theater (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Peter Jackson
Producer
- Jim Booth
- Peter Jackson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Meet the Feebles represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Peter Jackson 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 1989, 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 Meet the Feebles took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.8 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 118 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1989, 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 Meet the Feebles shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Hard Day's Night, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Meet the Feebles subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Shaun of the Dead and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes explore similar territory, Meet the Feebles stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 12, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Budget: $750,000
- Revenue: $80,000
