Cast
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Zac Efron
as Jack Jansen
Matthew McConaughey
as Ward Jansen
Nicole Kidman
as Charlotte Bless
David Oyelowo
as Yardley Acheman
Macy Gray
as Anita / Narrator
John Cusack
as Hillary Van Wetter
Scott Glenn
as W.W. Jansen
Ned Bellamy
as Tyree van Wetter
Nealla Gordon
as Ellen Guthrie
Edrick Browne
as Hustler #1
Kevin Waterman
as Victim
Danny Hanemann
as Sheriff Thurmond Call
Peter Murnik
as Death Row Guard
John P. Fertitta
as Sam Ellison
Jay Oliver
as Mr. Guthrie / Wedding Guest
Crew
Director
- Lee Daniels
Producer
- Hilary Shor
- Cassian Elwes
- Ed Cathell III
- Avi Lerner
- Lee Daniels
Reviews
Andres Gomez
Hugely disturbing. Performances and direction are quite good, IMHO, just the story is creepy and disgusting.
Jan 21, 2013
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Paperboy 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 Lee Daniels 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 2012, 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 The Paperboy took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $12.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2135 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Paperboy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ariel, which focuses more on action than character development, The Paperboy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Forrest Gump and Citizen Kane explore similar territory, The Paperboy 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: September 14, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Budget: $12,500,000
- Revenue: $1,353,868
Where to Watch
