Cast
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Orlando Bloom
as Drew Baylor
Kirsten Dunst
as Claire Colburn
Susan Sarandon
as Hollie Baylor
Alec Baldwin
as Phil DeVoss
Bruce McGill
as Bill Banyon
Judy Greer
as Heather Baylor
Jessica Biel
as Ellen Kishmore
Paul Schneider
as Jessie Baylor
Loudon Wainwright III
as Uncle Dale
Gailard Sartain
as Charles Dean
Jed Rees
as Chuck Hasboro
Paula Deen
as Aunt Dora
Dan Biggers
as Uncle Roy
Alice Marie Crowe
as Aunt Lena
Tim Devitt
as Mitch Baylor
Crew
Director
- Cameron Crowe
Writer
- Cameron Crowe
Producer
- Paula Wagner
- Cameron Crowe
- Tom Cruise
Reviews
JPV852
Charming if not uneven romantic-drama-comedy that has its moments though Orlando Bloom's narration felt stilted at times, but I liked his interactions with Kirsten Dunst. A bit weak compared with Cameron Crowe's other works, still liked it enough. **3.5/5**
Feb 3, 2021
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Elizabethtown 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 Cameron Crowe 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 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 Elizabethtown took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $57.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 167 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 255 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Elizabethtown shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Absurdistan, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Elizabethtown subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Youth Without Youth and Outsourced explore similar territory, Elizabethtown 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: October 14, 2005
- Runtime: 2h 3m
- Budget: $57,000,000
- Revenue: $52,200,000
Where to Watch
