Cast
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Kirk Douglas
as Jameson Schuyler
Sylva Koscina
as Rena Westabrook
Eli Wallach
as Tennessee Fredericks
Kenneth Haigh
as Jonathan Fleming
Martyn Green
as Finchley
Sharon Farrell
as Carol
Ruth White
as Biddy
Philip Bosco
as Fuller
Ralph Waite
as Sean Magruder
Meg Myles
as Mrs. Magruder
William Roerick
as Loren Westabrook
Dana Elcar
as Layton
Dolph Sweet
as Captain Haver
Dee Victor
as Mrs. Gordon
Lincoln Kilpatrick
as Daley
Crew
Director
- David Lowell Rich
Writer
- A.J. Russell
Producer
- Richard Lewis
Reviews
JPV852
This comedic-thriller is neither funny nor very suspense-filled. The dialogue is stilted and characters not entirely likable, but worse it's just all around dull, uninteresting and forgettable. By the end my mind was drifting off elsewhere. **2.0/5**
Apr 25, 2021
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Lovely Way to Die 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 David Lowell Rich 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 1968, 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 A Lovely Way to Die took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 361 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1968, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Lovely Way to Die shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Piano Player, which focuses more on action than character development, A Lovely Way to Die subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gold Bodyguard and All the King's Men explore similar territory, A Lovely Way to Die stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: April 19, 1968
- Runtime: 1h 43m
